Approved Research

Magnetic resonance image-assessed body composition, weight change, and their associations with breast cancer risk and mortality.

Lay summary

In this study, we aim to assess the association between MRI-assessed body composition and BCa risk in adult women. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide and in the United States. Obesity has been known to be a risk factor for breast cancer as body fat produces hormones like estrogen, which is known to stimulate the growth of certain breast cancers. It also contributes to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, both linked to higher cancer risk. Unlike traditional measures like BMI, MRI offers accurate body composition measurements, including fat and muscle distribution. It can also quantify visceral fat associated with metabolic syndrome and increased cancer risk. Understanding these mechanisms could improve prevention and treatment strategies for breast cancer. Also, we aim to assess the associations of levels of adipose tissues and muscles with breast cancer-specific and overall mortality in adult breast cancer survivors. Higher body fat leads to a rise in circulating levels of leptin, resistin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1b (IL-1b), tumor-necrotic factor alpha (TNF-a), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and free fatty acids (FFA).9 These mechanisms likely affect insulin signaling, thereby causing insulin resistance. Low muscle mass is also associated with higher mortality rates. Understanding the impact of body composition on breast cancer mortality could influence treatment strategies, potentially improving survival rates. Hence, MRI-assessed body composition can provide crucial prognostic information and guide personalized treatment. In addition, we aim to assess the association between weight change with breast cancer-specific and overall mortality in female breast cancer survivors. Weight gain also causes chronic inflammation and affects the immune system, facilitating cancer growth. Additionally, weight gain usually accompanies metabolic syndrome, creating a cancer-conducive environment. By studying weight change, researchers can identify risks and develop strategies for prevention and intervention. No previous study has assessed the association of MRI-assessed body composition with breast cancer risk and mortality. Our results could generate new approaches for incorporating body composition assessment into clinical practice for breast cancer risk assessment and survival. We anticipate completing the project in up to 3 years after the approval.