Sex Hormones in Women from Rural China and Britain
Author Information
Author(s): T.J.A. Key, J. Chen, D.Y. Wang, M.C. Pike, J. Boreham
Primary Institution: Imperial Cancer Research Fund, Cancer Epidemiology Unit, Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford, UK
Hypothesis
Plasma concentrations of E2 and other hormones possibly related to breast cancer would be lower in low risk Chinese women than in British women.
Conclusion
The study found that mean oestradiol and testosterone concentrations were significantly higher in British women compared to Chinese women across different age groups.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean oestradiol concentrations were 36%, 90%, and 171% higher in British women compared to Chinese women in the respective age groups.
- Mean testosterone concentrations were 48%, 68%, and 53% higher in British women compared to Chinese women in the respective age groups.
- Sex hormone binding globulin did not differ significantly between the two countries in younger age groups but was lower in British women in the oldest age group.
Takeaway
Women in Britain have higher levels of certain hormones linked to breast cancer than women in rural China.
Methodology
The study measured plasma hormone concentrations in pooled samples from 3,250 rural Chinese women and 300 British women aged 35-64.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the timing of sample collection and the non-random selection of British samples.
Limitations
Differences in sample collection and processing methods between the two countries may affect the results.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 3,250 rural Chinese women and 300 British women, all aged 35-64.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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