Urinary Estrogen Metabolites, Active and Sedentary Behaviors, and Breast Cancer Risk
Numerous epidemiological studies suggest that higher levels of physical activity may reduce breast cancer risk among postmenopausal women. Although the mechanisms that account for the protective effect of physical activity are not well understood, it has been hypothesized that physical activity may reduce levels of circulating sex steroid hormones. Investigators in DCEG are conducting a cross-sectional study of approximately 600 postmenopausal controls in the Breast Cancer Case-Control Study in Poland with the overall objective of assessing urinary estrogen metabolites in relation to accelerometer-based measures of active and sedentary behavior. In addition to the collection of questionnaire data and biological specimens, women from the Warsaw, Poland site were also asked to wear an accelerometer (Actigraph 7165) for seven days. A comprehensive urinary profile of endogenous estrogens, including 15 estrogens and estrogen metabolites, is being measured via the LC/MS2 assay. Findings from this study will extend our biological understanding of the effects of physical activity and sedentary time on estrogen metabolism.
For more information, contact Gretchen Gierach.