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Second-To-Fourth Digit Ratio (2D:4D) in Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review
Abdullah Avcı1, Emine Kaplan Serin2
1Anesthesia Program, Vocational School of Health Services, Toros University, Mersin, Turkey.
Summary
The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) may indicate breast cancer risk, with higher ratios potentially linked to increased susceptibility. Further research is needed to confirm this association due to study variations.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Biostatistics
Background:
- The second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is an indirect marker of prenatal sex hormone exposure.
- It has been explored as a potential indicator for hormone-related diseases like breast cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and evaluate the relationship between the 2D:4D finger ratio and breast cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
- Searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.
- Included observational studies assessed for methodological quality.
Main Results:
- Seven observational studies with 13,556 women were analyzed.
- Most studies indicated higher 2D:4D ratios in breast cancer cases, but findings were inconsistent.
- Heterogeneity across studies suggests a possible but not definitive association.
Conclusions:
- The 2D:4D finger ratio may be associated with breast cancer risk.
- Substantial heterogeneity necessitates cautious interpretation.
- Further large prospective studies are required for definitive conclusions.
