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Copper in human mammary carcinogenesis: a case-cohort study
1Institute of Epidemiology and Social Medicine, University of Aarhus, Denmark.
American Journal of Epidemiology
|February 15, 1993
Summary
This study found a U-shaped relationship between plasma copper levels and breast cancer risk in women. Higher and lower levels of copper were associated with increased risk, suggesting a complex role for this trace element.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
Background:
- Breast cancer is a significant global health concern.
- Hormonal factors and trace elements are investigated for their role in carcinogenesis.
- The Guernsey prospective study cohort provides a valuable resource for investigating breast cancer risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between plasma copper levels and breast cancer risk.
- To explore the relationship between premorbid copper levels and the development of breast cancer.
- To determine if copper levels influence breast cancer risk over time.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 5,100 healthy women was established in Guernsey, England (1968-1975).
- Blood samples and questionnaire data on risk factors were collected at study entry.
- Plasma copper levels were measured in 46 breast cancer cases and 138 controls, diagnosed an average of 11 years later.
Main Results:
- Plasma copper levels were similar between breast cancer cases (1.31 mg/L) and controls (1.26 mg/L).
- A U-shaped association was observed between plasma copper quartiles and breast cancer risk.
- Adjusted odds ratios for breast cancer were elevated in the lowest (1.8) and highest (3.2) copper quartiles.
Conclusions:
- Premorbid plasma copper levels exhibit a U-shaped relationship with breast cancer risk.
- Both low and high copper levels may be associated with increased breast cancer risk.
- Copper's role in breast cancer development warrants further investigation.