Review

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12 pages, 665 KiB

Open AccessReview

Learning from and Leveraging Multi-Level Changes in Responses to the COVID 19 Pandemic to Facilitate Breast Cancer Prevention Efforts

by Deborah J. Bowen, Kelly E. Rentscher, Amy Wu, Gwen Darien, Helen Ghirmai Haile, Jeanne Mandelblatt and Marion Kavanaugh-Lynch

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 6999; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18136999 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2626

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has had multilevel effects on non-COVID-19 health and health care, including deferral of routine cancer prevention and screening and delays in surgical and other procedures. Health and health care use has also been affected by pandemic-related loss of employer-based [...] Read more.

The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has had multilevel effects on non-COVID-19 health and health care, including deferral of routine cancer prevention and screening and delays in surgical and other procedures. Health and health care use has also been affected by pandemic-related loss of employer-based health insurance, food and housing disruptions, and heightened stress, sleep disruptions and social isolation. These disruptions are projected to contribute to excess non-COVID-19 deaths over the coming decades. At the same time municipalities, health systems and individuals are making changes in response to the pandemic, including modifications in the environmental to promote health, implementation of telehealth platforms, and shifts towards greater self-care and using remote platforms to maintain social connections. We used a multi-level biopsychosocial model to examine the available literature on the relationship between COVID-19-related changes and breast cancer prevention to identify current gaps in knowledge and identify potential opportunities for future research. We found that COVID-19 has impacted several aspects of social and economic life, through a variety of mechanisms, including unemployment, changes in health care delivery, changes in eating and activity, and changes in mental health. Some of these changes should be reduced, while others should be explored and enhanced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

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15 pages, 928 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

The Role of Stress in Breast Cancer Incidence: Risk Factors, Interventions, and Directions for the Future

by Deborah J. Bowen, Senaida Fernandez Poole, Mary White, Rodney Lyn, Debra A. Flores, Helen G. Haile and David R. Williams

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1871; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041871 - 15 Feb 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5706

Abstract

Stress is a common belief among breast cancer patients and the public to explain variation in breast cancer incidence. Epidemiological studies interrogating the relationship between stress and cancer have reported mixed results. The impact of the topic and the lack of consensus has [...] Read more.

Stress is a common belief among breast cancer patients and the public to explain variation in breast cancer incidence. Epidemiological studies interrogating the relationship between stress and cancer have reported mixed results. The impact of the topic and the lack of consensus has sparked this review of the literature to investigate gaps in knowledge and identify areas of research. We first present a brief summary of the biopsychosocial model generally used to conduct research on stress. We then divide the overview of the literature into areas of research focus. These include the role of distressing life events in breast cancer incidence, the role of adverse childhood events in later breast cancer incidence, the importance of race and socioeconomic status (SES) as social determinants of breast cancer incidence, and the specific role of chronic stress in relation to breast cancer. For each topic, we discuss the potential of stress as a risk factor and possible intervention strategies that could reduce the effects of stress. We then identify further research questions to be probed to fill the gaps in knowledge. We conclude with a discussion of future research directions for stress research as it relates to breast cancer incidence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

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21 pages, 443 KiB

Open AccessReview

Inflammatory Biomarkers and Breast Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review of the Evidence and Future Potential for Intervention Research

by Rebecca D. Kehm, Jasmine A. McDonald, Suzanne E. Fenton, Marion Kavanaugh-Lynch, Karling Alice Leung, Katherine E. McKenzie, Jeanne S. Mandelblatt and Mary Beth Terry

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(15), 5445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17155445 - 28 Jul 2020

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3052

Abstract

Measuring systemic chronic inflammatory markers in the blood may be one way of understanding the role of inflammation in breast cancer risk, and might provide an intermediate outcome marker in prevention studies. Here, we present the results of a systematic review of prospective [...] Read more.

Measuring systemic chronic inflammatory markers in the blood may be one way of understanding the role of inflammation in breast cancer risk, and might provide an intermediate outcome marker in prevention studies. Here, we present the results of a systematic review of prospective epidemiologic studies that examined associations between systemic inflammatory biomarkers measured in blood and breast cancer risk. From 1 January 2014 to 20 April 2020, we identified 18 unique studies (from 16 publications) that examined the association of systemic inflammatory biomarkers measured in blood with breast cancer risk using prospectively collected epidemiologic data. Only one marker, C-reactive protein, was studied extensively (measured in 13 of the 16 publications), and had some evidence of a positive association with breast cancer risk. Evidence associating other inflammatory biomarkers and more comprehensive panels of markers with the development of breast cancer is limited. Future prospective evidence from expanded panels of systemic blood inflammatory biomarkers is needed to establish strong and independent links with breast cancer risk, along with mechanistic studies to understand inflammatory pathways and demonstrate how breast tissue responds to chronic inflammation. This knowledge could ultimately support the development and evaluation of mechanistically driven interventions to reduce inflammation and prevent breast cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

Other

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7 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Searching beyond the Lamppost to Reduce Breast Cancer Disparities

by Sarah Gehlert, Marion H. E. Kavanaugh-Lynch and Senaida Fernandez Poole

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 1186; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031186 - 29 Jan 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2007

Abstract

Racial and ethnic differences in breast cancer occur by race/ethnicity in both incidence and mortality rates. Women of lower socioeconomic status likewise have poorer outcomes. When race alone is considered, incidence rates in the United States are highest among White women (130.8 per [...] Read more.

Racial and ethnic differences in breast cancer occur by race/ethnicity in both incidence and mortality rates. Women of lower socioeconomic status likewise have poorer outcomes. When race alone is considered, incidence rates in the United States are highest among White women (130.8 per 100,000), with Black women close behind (126.7 per 100,000). Incidence is lowest among Asian/Pacific Islander women, at 93.2 per 100,000. Mortality differences are more pronounced, with Black women 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than White women (28.4 per 100,000 and 20.3 per 100,000, respectively). Mortality rates for Asian/Pacific Islander women (11.5 per 100,000) are far lower than for Black and White women. When age is considered, additional differences between Black and White women appear, in part accounted for by types of breast cancer experienced. Women of other racial/ethnic groups and socioeconomic status have received less scientific attention. In this article, we provide a brief overview of the evidence for social determinants of breast cancer and argue that the current reliance on race over racism and ethnicity contributes to our inability to eliminate breast cancer disparities in the United States and elsewhere in the world. We suggest alternatives to the current approach to research in breast cancer disparities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

8 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Shift Work and Breast Cancer

by Sarah Gehlert, Mark Clanton and on behalf of the Shift Work and Breast Cancer Strategic Advisory Group

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(24), 9544; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249544 - 20 Dec 2020

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5503

Abstract

The rates of shift work outside of daylight hours have increased in recent years, and nighttime shift work is now considered a potential carcinogenic occupational exposure. Light at night exposure, lower melatonin production, and the production of stress-related mediators disrupt normal sleep–wake cycles. [...] Read more.

The rates of shift work outside of daylight hours have increased in recent years, and nighttime shift work is now considered a potential carcinogenic occupational exposure. Light at night exposure, lower melatonin production, and the production of stress-related mediators disrupt normal sleep–wake cycles. Women who work lower-wage jobs and part-time workers whose shifts are determined entirely by their supervisors (rotating shifts) may be subject to stress related to efforts to align childcare and other needs with the unpredictable nature of rotating shift work. The causal link between breast cancer and the sleep cycle or circadian disruption are yet to be established; however, disruption of the circadian cycles by light at night exposure or chronic exposure to stress-related mediators have all been linked to the increased risk of breast cancer. We review the existing literature on shift work and breast cancer, identify knowledge gaps, and suggest future directions for research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

15 pages, 655 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Californians Linking Action with Science for Prevention of Breast Cancer (CLASP-BC)—Phase 2

by Jon F. Kerner, Marion H.E. Kavanaugh-Lynch, Christopher Politis, Lourdes Baezconde-Garbanati, Aviva Prager and Ross C. Brownson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(23), 8863; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17238863 - 28 Nov 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1697

Abstract

Californians Linking Action with Science for Prevention of Breast Cancer (CLASP-BC) is part of California Breast Cancer Research Program’s (CBCRP) Initiative strategic priority to disseminate and implement high-impact, population-based primary prevention interventions. CLASP-BC is informed by six years of funded program dissemination and [...] Read more.

Californians Linking Action with Science for Prevention of Breast Cancer (CLASP-BC) is part of California Breast Cancer Research Program’s (CBCRP) Initiative strategic priority to disseminate and implement high-impact, population-based primary prevention interventions. CLASP-BC is informed by six years of funded program dissemination and implementation (D&I) research and evaluation conducted by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC) through its Coalitions Linking Action and Science for Prevention (CLASP). In its second phase, CLASP-BC will fund multi-sector, multi-jurisdictional initiatives that integrate the lessons learned from science with the lessons learned from practice and policy to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer and develop viable and sustainable infrastructure models for primary prevention breast cancer programs and research evidence implementation. Applications will be solicited from research, practice, policy, and community teams to address one or more of the intervention goals for the 23 risk factors identified in Paths to Prevention: The California Breast Cancer Primary Prevention Plan (P2P), expanding upon existing primary prevention efforts into two or more California jurisdictions, focused on disadvantaged, high risk communities with unmet social needs. The lessons learned from CLASP-BC will be widely disseminated within the participating jurisdictions, across California and, where applicable, to jurisdictions outside the state. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

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11 pages, 354 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

Looking beyond the Lamppost: Population-Level Primary Prevention of Breast Cancer

by Gabriella M. McLoughlin, Eric M. Wiedenman, Sarah Gehlert and Ross C. Brownson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(23), 8720; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17238720 - 24 Nov 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1983

Abstract

Although innovative and impactful interventions are necessary for the primary prevention of breast cancer, the factors influencing program adoption, implementation, and sustainment are key, yet remain poorly understood. Insufficient attention has been paid to the primary prevention of breast cancer in state and [...] Read more.

Although innovative and impactful interventions are necessary for the primary prevention of breast cancer, the factors influencing program adoption, implementation, and sustainment are key, yet remain poorly understood. Insufficient attention has been paid to the primary prevention of breast cancer in state and national cancer plans, limiting the impact of evidence-based interventions on population health. This commentary highlights the state of primary prevention of breast cancer and gaps in the current literature. As a way to enhance the reach and adoption of cancer prevention policies and programs, the utility of dissemination and implementation (D&I) science is highlighted. Examples of how D&I could be applied to study policies and programs for chronic disease prevention are described, in addition to needs for future research. Through application of D&I science and a strong focus on health equity, a clearer understanding of contextual factors influencing the success of prevention programs will be achieved, ultimately impacting population health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

15 pages, 319 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Doing What We Know, Knowing What to Do: Californians Linking Action with Science for Prevention of Breast Cancer (CLASP-BC)

by Jon F. Kerner, Marion H. E. Kavanaugh-Lynch, Lourdes Baezconde-Garbanati, Christopher Politis, Aviva Prager and Ross C. Brownson

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 5050; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17145050 - 14 Jul 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1919

Abstract

Given the lack of progress in breast cancer prevention, the California Breast Cancer Research Program (CBCRP) plans to apply current scientific knowledge about breast cancer to primary prevention at the population level. This paper describes the first phase of Californians Linking Action with [...] Read more.

Given the lack of progress in breast cancer prevention, the California Breast Cancer Research Program (CBCRP) plans to apply current scientific knowledge about breast cancer to primary prevention at the population level. This paper describes the first phase of Californians Linking Action with Science for Prevention of Breast Cancer (CLASP-BC). The foci of Phase 1 are building coalitions and coalition capacity building through community engagement in community-based participatory research (CBPR) and dissemination and implementation (D&I) research training. Based on the successful implementation and evaluation of Phase 1, the foci of Phase 2 (presented separately in this special issue) will be to translate the California Breast Cancer Prevention Plan overarching goal and specific intervention goals for 23 breast cancer risk and protective factors strategies into evidence-informed interventions (EIIs) that are disseminated and implemented across California. CLASP-BC is designed to identify, disseminate and implement high-impact, population-based prevention approaches by funding large scale EIIs, through multi-jurisdictional actions, with the intent to decrease the risk of breast cancer and other chronic diseases (sharing common risk factors), particularly among racial/ethnic minorities and medically underserved populations in California. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urgent Questions to Advance Breast Cancer Research in Environment, Disparities and Primary Prevention)

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