Metabolic and anthropometric changes in early breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant therapy

Lipid Profile and Atherogenic Risk Assessment in Nigerian Breast Cancer Patients - A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

The lipid profile and atherogenic risk indices in Nigerian breast cancer patients are largely unknown. This study evaluated the lipid profile and atherogenic risk indices of breast cancer patients in Nigeria.

METHODS

This study involved 45 primarily diagnosed breast cancer patients and 50 normal control subjects. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, and High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was calculated according to Friedewald formula. Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), Atherogenic coefficient (AC), TC/HDL-C (Castelli I) and LDL-C/HDL-C (Castelli II) risk indices were all calculated. The Framingham risk assessment was calculated and categorized.

RESULTS

The study group had significantly higher triglycerides (TG), and atherogenic indices than the control group (p < 0.001), while HDL-Cholesterol (HDL-C) was significantly lower in the study group (p < 0.001). Total cholesterol and LDL-Cholesterol (LDL-C) had a significant positive correlation with age (r = 0.283, p < 0.018; r = 0.272, p < 0.023); TG was significantly positively correlated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.320. p < 0.007; r = 0.334, p < 0.005); HDL-C had a significant negative correlation with BMI, systolic and diastolic blood pressure (r = -0.252, p < 0.035; r = -0.29, p < 0.015; r = -0.329, p < 0.005). The lipid ratios (TC/HDL-C, LDL-C/HDL-C) were significantly positively correlated with body mass index (BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The Framingham Risk Score showed that only 2 subjects in the study group (4.4%) were at a high risk of having a cardiovascular event.

CONCLUSION

Breast cancer patients have a higher prevalence of dyslipidaemia, and cardiovascular risk than the normal population.

The Predictive Role of Serum Lipid Levels, p53 and ki-67, According to Molecular Subtypes in Breast Cancer: A Randomized Clinical Study

Dyslipidemia is a component of metabolic syndrome, having an important role in the carcinogenesis of different tumor types, such as prostate, ovarian, or renal cancer. The number of studies on the predictive potential of the different components of the lipid profile with a predictive potential in breast cancer is quite low. The evaluation of the lipid profile was carried out for the 142 patients who benefited from neoadjuvant therapy (NAC) in order to identify a potential predictive biomarker. The serological sample collection was performed sequentially according to a standardized protocol, pre-NAC, post-NAC and 6 months post-NAC after a 6-h pre-collection fast. We also investigated in the general group the presence or absence of the p53 mutation (TP53) and of the mitotic index ki-67, respectively, in relation to the molecular subtypes. The menopausal status, tumor size, family history, grading, Ki-67, p53 and LN metastases have a predictive nature regarding overall survival (OS) (p < 0.05), while for disease free survival (DFS), only tumor size, tumor grading, Ki-67 > 14, and p53+ are of predictive nature. The genetic and molecular analysis carried out in our group indicates that 71.67% have a Ki-67 score higher than 14%, and 39% of the patients have the positive P53 mutation. The multivariate analysis in the case of patients included in the TNBC subtype showed that the increased tumor volume (p = 0.002) and increased level of HDL (p = 0.004) represent predictive factors for the tumor response rate to NAC. High HDL-C levels before NAC and increased LDL-C levels after NAC were associated with the better treatment response in ER-positive and HER2+ breast cancer patients. Increased HDL-C values and tumor volume represent predictive factors as to the response rate to NAC in the case of patients included in the TNBC subtype. Regarding the ER+ and HER2+ subtypes, increased levels of HDL-C pre-NAC and increased levels of LDL-C post-NAC were associated with a better therapeutic response rate. Tumor grading, Ki-67, p53, and LN metastases have a predictive nature for OS, while tumor size, tumor grading, and Ki-67 > 14, and p53+ are predictive for DFS.

Serum fatty acid profiles in breast cancer patients following treatment

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is associated with alterations in lipid metabolism. The treatment of breast cancer can also affect serum lipid composition. The purpose of this study was the examination of serum fatty acids (FAs) profiles in breast cancer survivors to assess if the FA levels normalize.

METHODS

Serum levels of FAs were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in a group of breast cancer patients at baseline (before treatment, n = 28), at two follow-up visits at 12 months (n = 27) and 24 months (n = 19) after the breast cancer resection, and in the group of healthy controls (n = 25). Multivariate analysis was performed to assess how FA serum profile changes following treatment.

RESULTS

Breast cancer patients' serum FA profiles at follow-ups did not normalize to the levels of control group. The greatest differences were found for levels of branched-chain (BCFA), odd-chain (OCFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFAs) FAs, all of which were significantly increased 12 months after the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

After treatment for breast cancer, the patients' serum FA profile differs from the profile before treatment and from controls, especially 12 months after treatment. Some changes may be beneficial - increased BCFA and OCFA levels, and improved n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio. This may reflect lifestyle changes in breast cancer survivors and have an impact on the risk of recurrence.

Clinical verification of the relationship between serum lipid metabolism and immune activity in breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Lipid metabolism has been recently reported to affect the prognosis and tumor immune activity in cancer patients. However, the effect of lipid metabolism on chemosensitivity in patients with breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) remains unclear.

METHODS

We examined 327 patients with breast cancer who were treated with NAC followed by curative surgery. The correlations between the serum levels of total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) and the clinicopathological features, including the efficacy of NAC, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and absolute lymphocyte count (ALC), were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

Serum TG levels were increased after NAC in all the subtypes, and the rate of change was the highest, especially in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) (21.0% → 48.1%). In addition, only TNBC patients with an objective response (OR) had significantly higher TG levels after NAC than those without (P = 0.049). Patients with a high ALC before NAC had significantly higher TG levels after NAC than patients with all breast cancer (P = 0.001), HER2-enriched breast cancer (P = 0.021), and TNBC (P = 0.008). Patients with a low NLR before NAC had significantly higher TG levels after NAC only among patients with TNBC (P = 0.025). In patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-enriched breast cancer, the group with normal TC levels before NAC had significantly better OS than those with high TC levels (P = 0.013, log-rank test), and in patients with TNBC, the group with high TC levels after NAC had significantly better OS than those with normal TC levels (P = 0.014, log-rank test).

CONCLUSIONS

Good systemic immune activity and chemosensitivity may be associated with lipid metabolism regulated by NAC in TNBC patients.

Effects of Mobile Healthcare Applications on the Lifestyle of Patients With Breast Cancer: A Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

Physical activity (PA) in patients with breast cancer is associated with improved quality of life (QoL); however, many breast cancer survivors do not meet the recommended PA level. This study aims to evaluate the effect of digital health interventions using mobile apps to promote PA and QoL in patients with postoperative breast cancer. This study will also identify effective digital intervention methods and perform an economic analysis. The main hypothesis is that the use of mobile healthcare apps will improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL), promote PA, and reduce healthcare costs.

METHODS

The Promotion of a better lifestyle (PA) with Precise and Practicable digital healthcare in postoperative CANCER patients through a Multi-Disciplinary Network (P4CancerMDnet) study is examined by a prospective 4-group randomized controlled trial with a concurrent cost-utility evaluation. Patients are randomly assigned to 3 different mobile app intervention groups or control groups in a 1:1:1:1 ratio. The intervention group is encouraged to use the assigned mobile app. The targeted outcomes are HRQOL, metabolic health markers, and quality-adjusted life-years. The outcomes will be measured at the 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

DISCUSSION

This study will contribute towards a better lifestyle and HRQOL through digital healthcare for postoperative breast cancer patients. These findings are expected to provide evidence of the effectiveness of mobile apps for breast cancer survivors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Research Information Service Identifier: KCT0005447.

Cancer therapy's impact on lipid metabolism: Mechanisms and future avenues

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a growing threat among cancer patients. Not surprisingly, cancer-targeting therapies have been linked to metabolic dysregulation including changes in local and systemic lipid metabolism. Thus, tumor development and cancer therapeutics are intimately linked to cholesterol metabolism and may be a driver of increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in this population. Chemotherapeutic agents affect lipid metabolism through diverse mechanisms. In this review, we highlight the mechanistic and clinical evidence linking commonly used cytotoxic therapies with cholesterol metabolism and potential opportunities to limit atherosclerotic risk in this patient population. Better understanding of the link between atherosclerosis, cancer therapy, and cholesterol metabolism may inform optimal lipid therapy for cancer patients and mitigate cardiovascular disease burden.

Association of Obesity and Luminal Subtypes in Prognosis and Adjuvant Endocrine Treatment Effectiveness Prediction in Chinese Breast Cancer Patients

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of obesity on clinicopathological characteristics of breast cancer; to explore the effect of obesity on the prognosis and performance of endocrine therapy in breast cancer patients.

Methods

Patients with luminal/HER2-negative early breast cancer were included and categorized into the non-obese (BMI<28kg/m²) and obese (BMI≥28kg/m²) groups according to body mass index (BMI). Clinicopathological characteristics and treatment modalities were compared between groups. Interaction of adjuvant endocrine therapy with obesity was analyzed.

Results

A total of 2,875 patients were included: 2,598 non-obese and 277 obese. A higher rate of patients with comorbidities (OR: 2.83, 95%CI 2.13-3.74, P<0.001) or PR-positive tumor (OR: 1.63, 95%CI 1.03-2.58, P=0.037) were identified in the obese group. Obesity was not associated with disease recurrence (P=0.839) or overall survival (P=0.140) in the whole population. Subgroup analysis did show an association with worse relapse-free survival (RFS, HR 3.48, 95%CI 1.31-9.22, P=0.012) and overall survival (OS, HR 4.67, 95%CI 1.28-16.95, P=0.019) in luminal A breast cancer. These results could not be reproduced in the luminal B subtype with a RFS (HR 0.78, 95%CI 0.41-1.49, P=0.454) or OS (HR 1.17, 95%CI 0.50-2.74, P=0.727). Furthermore, obesity did not impact endocrine therapy effectiveness in Tamoxifen or the aromatase inhibitor group (RFS: interact P=0.381; OS: interact P=0.888).

Conclusions

The impact of obesity on prognosis interacted with luminal subtype status in Chinese breast cancer patients which was not related with endocrine treatment modality.

The Impact of Multidisciplinary Weight Management on Body Weight and Body Mass Composition in Women with Breast Cancer Post-Adjuvant Chemotherapy: A Retrospective Chart Review

INTRODUCTION

Weight gain during chemotherapy for breast cancer is a well-documented adverse effect. The purpose of this study was to investigate how multidisciplinary weight management involving endocrinology, dietitian, and exercise physiology care, in a real-life healthy weight clinic (HWC) would impact body weight and mass composition in breast cancer women post-adjuvant chemotherapy compared to a cohort of non-cancer women who have been matched by age, ethnicity, smoking, and menopausal status.

METHODS

Body weight (kg), BMI (kg/m2), skeletal muscle mass (SMM %), fat mass (FM %), and waist circumference (cm) were collected at baseline of the first HWC appointment, 3 months after baseline, and 6 months after baseline. A total of 32 women were included, 11 in the breast cancer cohort and 21 in the control cohort, that matched inclusion and exclusion criteria based on a retrospective chart review from 28 July 2017 to 19 July 2021.

RESULTS

By 6 months, the breast cancer women had a mean weight change of -6.99 kg (SD = 3.87, p = 0.003, n = 11) and change in BMI by -2.72 kg/m2 (SD = 1.62, p = 0.004, n = 11). There was a change in SMM of 1.21% (SD = 0.73, p = 0.005, n = 11), a change in FM of -2.76% (SD = 1.33, p = 0.002, n = 11), and a change in waist circumference of -8.13 cm (SD = 4.21, p = 0.031, n = 3). By 6 months in the breast cancer cohort, there was a larger change in body weight in women who did not have MetS (-8.72 kg, SD = 2.41, n = 6) in comparison to women with MetS (-2.65 kg, SD = 3.75 kg, n = 3) (p = 0.045).

CONCLUSION

Findings indicate that multidisciplinary weight management has a positive role in early-stage breast cancer survival through improving body weight and mass composition. These results can add to the development of long-term treatment plans for survivors in order to shine a light on ways to reduce risk recurrence and chronic disease mortality.

Predictive value of a reduction in the level of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer undergoing radical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy: a retrospective observational study

Background

Cancer patients often exhibit chemotherapy-associated changes in serum lipid profiles, however, their prognostic value before and after adjuvant chemotherapy on survival among non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients is unknown.

Methods

NSCLC patients undergoing radical resection and subsequent adjuvant chemotherapy from 2013 to 2017 at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center were retrospectively reviewed. Fasted serum lipid levels were measured before and after chemotherapy. The optimal lipid cut-off values at baseline and fluctuation were determined using X-tile™. The fluctuations in serum lipid levels and disease-free survival (DFS) were assessed.

Results

Serum cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceride, apolipoprotein (Apo) A-I, and ApoB all significantly increased after adjuvant chemotherapy. X-tile determined 1.52 mmol/L of HDL-C and 0.74 g/L of ApoB as the optimal cut-off values before chemotherapy. Patients with HDL-C ≥ 1.52 mmol/L (median DFS: not reached vs. 26.30 months, P = 0.0005) and a decreased HDL-C level after adjuvant chemotherapy (median DFS: 80.43 vs. 26.12 months, P = 0.0204) had a longer DFS. An HDL-C level that increased by ≥ 0.32 mmol/L after chemotherapy indicated a worse DFS. A high baseline ApoB level were associated with a superior DFS. In the univariate analysis and the multivariate Cox analyses, a high baseline HDL-C level and a HDL-C reduction after adjuvant chemotherapy were independent indicators for superior DFS. High baseline HDL-C was related to N0-1 stage (χ² = 6.413, P = 0.011), and HDL-C fluctuation was significantly correlated with specific chemotherapy regimens (χ² = 5.002, P = 0.025).

Conclusions

Adjuvant chemotherapy increased various lipid levels in resected NSCLC patients. A higher HDL-C level before chemotherapy and a reduced HDL-C level after adjuvant chemotherapy were independent predictors of longer DFS in patients with curable NSCLC.

Evidence-based tailored nutrition educational intervention improves adherence to dietary guidelines, anthropometric measures and serum metabolic biomarkers in early-stage breast cancer patients: A prospective interventional study

PURPOSE

The impact of the adherence to dietary guidelines of early-stage breast cancer (EBC) patients on body composition changes during treatment is not entirely defined. This study aimed to evaluate the role of an evidence-based nutrition educational intervention, according to adherence to dietary guidelines, in EBC patients.

METHODS

This prospective study included EBC patients, candidates for neoadjuvant/adjuvant therapy. Patients received an evidence-based tailored nutrition educational intervention. The adherence to dietary guidelines, anthropometric and dietary assessments, and blood glucose and lipid profile tests were evaluated at baseline and after a 12-months nutritional intervention.

RESULTS

Two hundred and forty-three patients were enrolled. At baseline, 38.3% and 23.9% of patients were overweight and obese, weight gain ≥5% (compared to 6-months before enrollment) and central obesity were observed in 47.3% and 52.7% of patients, respectively. Adherence to dietary guidelines was low (median Med-Diet score: 6 [IQR 4-8]). After the nutritional intervention (median follow-up: 22 months [range 12-45]), adherence to dietary guidelines significantly increased (median Med-Diet score: 12 [IQR 8-13]), p < 0.0001). High adherence to dietary guidelines (defines as Med-Diet score ≥10) significantly correlated with: 1) overall weight loss ≥5% (21.8% vs. 2.5%, p = 0.003); 2) median BMI drop (from 25.6 kg/m² to 24.4 kg/m², p = 0.003); 3) lower prevalence of central obesity (38.2% vs. 7.2%, p = 0.01); 4) improvement in blood glucose levels and lipid profile.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that an evidence-based tailored nutrition educational intervention during treatment for EBC significantly increases overall adherence to dietary guidelines, and it improves both anthropometric measures and serum metabolic biomarkers in patients with high adherence.

Metabolic syndrome and its related biochemical derangements in breast cancer patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy: A study from a tertiary care oncology centre from Puducherry, South India

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Comparison of the existence of metabolic syndrome, its components and their related biochemical complications between newly diagnosed and treated breast cancer patients.

METHODS

Forty newly diagnosed untreated breast cancer patients and forty breast cancer patients who had received 7 cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy were recruited as group 1 and group 2 respectively. Height, weight, blood pressure, hormonal status, and tumor size were noted. The fasting blood glucose and lipid profile were estimated in AU 5811 Beckman coulter Clinical chemistry analyzer. Fasting insulin was estimated using Beckman Coulter access immunoassay system (UnicelDxI600). HbA1c assay was carried out in HPLC based ion exchange chromatography (Tosoh automated glycohemoglobin analyzer G8. Homeostasis Model Assessment 2-IR (HOMA 2-IR), HOMA-% B and HOMA-% S were calculated using an online calculator HOMA CALCULATOR [Oxford University]. Serum hsCRP and MDA were estimated by ELISA. FRAP assay was carried out manually to measure antioxidant status.

RESULTS

The existence of metabolic syndrome as well as type 2 diabetes was higher in the treated group when compared to the untreated patients. However, there were no significant differences in the indices of glucose homeostasis, low grade inflammation, oxidative stress and individual components of metabolic syndrome between the two groups. The triple negative patients were more prone to develop metabolic syndrome when compared to the triple positive patients.

CONCLUSION

Suitable therapeutic approaches may be planned out to address the metabolic syndrome and its related complications among breast cancer patients especially during the course of treatment.

Potential effects of nutrition-based weight loss therapies in reversing obesity-related breast cancer epigenetic marks

Obesity is a modifiable risk factor of breast cancer and epigenetic marks were proposed as a relevant mechanistic link. These mechanisms can be remodelled by modifying lifestyle factors and this fact could be useful in the treatment of obesity-related breast cancer. This review aimed to reveal the current evidence on the effects of differences in body composition and lifestyle factors on the risk, treatment, and survival of breast cancer with a focus on the effects of weight loss therapies based on different nutrients, bioactive compounds, and Mediterranean and ketogenic diets to counteract obesity-related breast cancer epigenetic marks. This review was framed on the most relevant and recently published articles and abstracts selected in PubMed using key words related to epigenetics, lifestyle, dietary habits, nutrients, bioactive compounds, ketone bodies, and weight loss treatments in obesity and breast cancer. Several studies have demonstrated that lifestyle interventions, including dietary modifications towards a healthy diet pattern, are effective therapies to prevent the onset of breast cancer and to improve the survival after treatment. These therapies reduce the main factors associated with obesity that are links between adiposity and cancer, including oxidative stress, inflammation and epigenetic mechanisms. However, although sufficient evidence exists regarding the effects of nutrients, dietary patterns, and weight loss therapies to prevent breast cancer or to improve survival, the effects of these strategies on the oncological treatment response were less studied. This review summarises the current scientific evidence regarding these nutritional strategies as adjuvant therapies in the management of obesity-related breast cancer by remodelling epigenetic marks related to carcinogenesis.

An individualized food-based nutrition intervention reduces visceral and total body fat while preserving skeletal muscle mass in breast cancer patients under antineoplastic treatment

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Breast cancer patients (BCP) during treatment often experience an increase in body weight and fat mass, and a decrease in muscle mass known as sarcopenic obesity, affecting their prognosis and quality of life. We aimed to evaluate the effect of a 6-month individualized food-based nutrition intervention program in nonmetastatic BCP body composition during treatment.

METHODS

This is a pre-post study in recently diagnosed women with invasive ductal/lobular breast carcinoma (clinical stage I-III). The individualized nutrition intervention was based on the dynamic macronutrient meal equivalent menu method (MEM). Dietary plans were developed according to WCRF/AICR guidelines, BCP total energy expenditure, 1.2-1.5 g/kgBW/d of protein intake, 5-9 servings/day of fruits and vegetables, and a caloric restriction (500-1000 kcal/d) when applicable (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²). Follow-up was every 2-weeks and a different diet menu was provided in each session during 6 months. Baseline and final measurements included the assessment of anthropometry, body composition, and physical activity.

RESULTS

Twenty-two participants completed the study and at diagnosis 68% were overweighed or obese. After the 6-month nutrition intervention program, BCP lost 3.1 kg (p < 0.01) of body weight, 2.7 kg (p < 0.01) of fat-mass, 400 g (p < 0.01) of abdominal fat, 118 g (p < 0.05) of visceral fat, 1.2 kg/m² of body mass index and 1.1 kg/m² of fat mass index (p < 0.01). During the period, no changes were observed in bone mineral density (p = 0.3), fat-free mass (p = 0.1) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (p = 0.2). Menopausal status in BCP did not modify the effect of the nutrition intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The individualized food-based nutrition intervention program empowered BCP to make informed healthy food choices within their personal preferences, socioeconomic and cultural background. With this type of intervention, nonmetastatic BCP reduced body weight, fat-mass, fat mass index, visceral and abdominal fat, while preserving skeletal muscle mass, during antineoplastic treatment. ClinicalTrials.govNCT03625635.

Proinflammatory circulating markers: new players for evaluating asymptomatic acute cardiovascular toxicity in breast cancer treatment

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate markers of cardiac damage (total CK, CKMB and CRP), inflammatory markers (free iron, homocysteine and TNF-α) as well as lipidogram in breast cancer patients undergoing acute cycles of doxorubicin (DOX), paclitaxel (PTX) or trastuzumab (TZ) and to verify if there is an association between these markers and the toxicity of the chemotherapeutic treatment. Methods: Included in the study were 120 breast cancer patients and 50 healthy controls. All analyzes were performed on automated systems. For the statistical analysis, each group was compared with the controls according to their normality by Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney test. Results: Our results showed that DOX treatment led to increased hsCRP (4.80 ± 1.23 mg/dL, p = 0.0005), triglycerides (187.6 ± 25.06, p = 0.0231), TNF-α (42.31 ± 17.96 pg/mL, p = 0.01) and Fe levels (138.8 ± 18.6 μg/dL, p = 0.0193). In the meantime, PTX induced changes in CK-MB (8.78 ± 4.2 U/L, p = 0.0361), hsCRP (7.12 ± 1.87 mg/dL, p = 0.0006), cholesterol (201.7 ± 19.54, p = 0.05), triglycerides (201.7 ± 19.54, p = 0.0277), TNF-α (38.27 ± 9.12 pg/mL, p = 0.023), homocysteine (10.95 ± 0, 86 μmol/L, p = 0.005), and free iron (113 ± 18 6 μg/dL, p = 0.045) while TZ augmented CK-MB (6.9 ± 1.97 U/L, p < 0.00), hsPCR (3.12 ± 0.68 mg/dL, p = 0.095), cholesterol (218.3 ± 16.79, p = 0.0317), triglycerides (218.3 ± 16.79, p = 0.0127), TNF-α (89.6 ± 12.11, p = 0.032), homocysteine (9.95 ± 1.15 μmol/L, p = 0.0396), free iron (120.5 ± 4.64 μg/dl, p = 0.0058) as well. Conclusions: Our data demonstrated the existence of a proinflammatory net triggered by breast cancer chemotherapy that could increase cardiomyocytes permeability and allow the leakage of circulating proteins as CK-MB and induce the production of hsCRP.

Chemotherapy negatively impacts body composition, physical function and metabolic profile in patients with breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that chemotherapy (CT) leads to unfavorable outcomes on nutritional and metabolic profile; however, this is poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of CT on body composition, bone mineral density (BMD), insulin resistance, lipid markers related to atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases in women recently diagnosed with breast cancer according to menopausal status.

METHODS

This is a prospective study that enrolled women newly diagnosed with stage II-III breast cancer (2014-18). Body composition were measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Blood samples were collected to assess lipid profile, insulin resistance and sensitivity, visceral adiposity index and lipid accumulation product were calculated. Dietary intake, physical activity and function were also evaluated at the time of breast cancer diagnosis and after CT completion.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine women (40.4% in the premenopausal stage) aged 51 ± 1 years took part in this study. CT duration was 197 ± 27 days and main regimen was anthracyclines with taxanes (88.9%). CT was associated with an increase in total and central adiposity, insulin resistance, and all lipid-related markers, and a decrease in appendicular lean mass index, BMD and HDL-c concentration. Premenopausal women experienced greater unfavorable outcomes on adiposity markers and BMD compared to postmenopausal women (p < 0.01). No changes were observed in dietary intake and physical activity after CT.

CONCLUSIONS

Breast cancer CT negatively impacted body composition and metabolic profile. Premenopausal women experienced greater unfavorable impact on adiposity markers and BMD.

Effect of Denosumab on Glucose Homeostasis in Postmenopausal Women with Breast Cancer Treated with Aromatase Inhibitors: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Aromatase inhibitors in women with breast cancer have been associated with cancer treatment-induced bone loss (CTIBL), increased fracture risk, and impairment of glucose metabolism. Denosumab (Dmab), a monoclonal antibody against RANKL, which is a key regulator of the osteoclast activity, is effective as an antiresorptive agent in the treatment of CTIBL. Since RANKL/RANK pathway may contribute to the pathogenesis of glucometabolic disorders, it has been suggested that Dmab may improve glucose homeostasis. Our pilot study evaluated the effect of a single administration of 60 mg Dmab on glucose metabolism in a cohort of women with breast cancer treated with aromatase inhibitors.

METHODS

Fifteen postmenopausal nondiabetic women were prospectively enrolled. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and metabolic parameters, including FGF21, were assessed at baseline and one month after Dmab injection. Midterm glucose control was evaluated by measuring glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels 5 months after Dmab.

RESULTS

Parameters of glucose metabolism were not different one month after Dmab but circulating FGF21 levels significantly decreased (128.5 ± 46.8 versus 100.2 ± 48.8 pg/mL; p=0.016). Considering patients with insulin resistance at baseline (HOMA-IR > 2.5 and Matsuda Index < 2.5; n = 5), reduced mean fasting insulin levels (16.3 ± 4.9 versus 13.5 ± 3.5 mcU/mL; p=0.029) and increased insulin sensitivity index QUICKI (0.317 ± 0.013 versus 0.327 ± 0.009; p=0.025) were found. Nonetheless, HbA1c increased 5 months after Dmab (36.0 ± 2.3 versus 39.6 ± 3.1 mmol/mol; p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Although RANKL blockade induced a short-term positive effect on insulin sensitivity, particularly in insulin-resistant patients, a benefit on long-term glucose metabolism was not evident. In conclusion, Dmab is safe for glucose metabolism in aromatase inhibitor-treated women with breast cancer.

Dynamic Changes of Blood Lipids in Breast Cancer Patients After (Neo)adjuvant Chemotherapy: A Retrospective Observational Study

Background

Previous studies indicated that the (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer can cause significant dyslipidemia in patients, but how long this abnormality can persist is unclear so far. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy has a long-term effect on blood lipids in breast cancer patients.

Methods

A total of 159 newly diagnosed female breast cancer patients receiving the (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy subsequently and 159 female healthy controls were enrolled into the observational study. All participants' blood lipid profiles which included TC, TG, HDL-C, and LDL-C before and at the end of the 1st and 12th month after chemotherapy were retrieved from the electronic medical record system. The blood lipid profiles and the percentage of dyslipidemia before and after chemotherapy in breast cancer patients and controls were compared.

Results

Compared with the baseline before chemotherapy, TC, LDL-C, and TG increased significantly at the end of the 1st month after chemotherapy, but only the abnormal increase in TG (2.98±0.71 mmol/L vs 2.82±0.63 mmol/L, P<0.05) and LDL-C (1.82±0.42 mmol/L vs 1.59±0.42 mmol/L, P<0.05) continued until the 12th month after chemotherapy. Levels of HDL-C in breast cancer patients and all the blood lipid parameters in controls remained stable during the observation period. The percentage of dyslipidemia in breast cancer patients rose from 41.5% at baseline to 54.1% at the 12th month after chemotherapy. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that the increase in dyslipidemia percentage was more pronounced in patients with low body mass index and aged over 50 years.

Conclusion

The (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy used for treating breast cancers can cause significant abnormalities in blood lipid profiles, and the abnormal increase in LDL-C and TG can last at least 12 months after chemotherapy, which indicates long-term management of blood lipid is necessary for those patients.

The intestinal microbiome, weight, and metabolic changes in women treated by adjuvant chemotherapy for breast and gynecological malignancies

BACKGROUND

Adjuvant chemotherapy induces weight gain, glucose intolerance, and hypertension in about a third of women. The mechanisms underlying these events have not been defined. This study assessed the association between the microbiome and weight gain in patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy for breast and gynecological cancers.

METHODS

Patients were recruited before starting adjuvant therapy. Weight and height were measured before treatment and 4-6 weeks after treatment completion. Weight gain was defined as an increase of 3% or more in body weight. A stool sample was collected before treatment, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed. Data regarding oncological therapy, menopausal status, and antibiotic use was prospectively collected. Patients were excluded if they were treated by antibiotics during the study. Fecal transplant experiments from patients were conducted using Swiss Webster germ-free mice.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients were recruited; of them, 9 gained 3.5-10.6% of baseline weight. The pretreatment microbiome of women who gained weight following treatment was significantly different in diversity and taxonomy from that of control women. Fecal microbiota transplantation from pretreatment samples of patients that gained weight induced metabolic changes in germ-free mice compared to mice transplanted with pretreatment fecal samples from the control women.

CONCLUSION

The microbiome composition is predictive of weight gain following adjuvant chemotherapy and induces adverse metabolic changes in germ-free mice, suggesting it contributes to adverse metabolic changes seen in patients. Confirmation of these results in a larger patient cohort is warranted.

Effects of Chemotherapy on Serum Lipids in Chinese Postoperative Breast Cancer Patients

Purpose

Chemotherapy is a comprehensive therapy for breast cancer; nevertheless, its associated adverse effects are drawing increasing attention with the continuous improvement of the efficacy. The changes in serum lipids of breast cancer patients caused by chemotherapy have been reported by previous studies, whereby the former increase the incidence rate of cardiovascular disorders. However, the variations in the changes of serum lipids with different chemotherapy regimens have seldom been reported.

Methods

From January 2011 to December 2017, 1740 breast cancer patients treated with chemotherapy were recruited at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. The chemotherapy regimens included anthracycline-based, taxane-based, and anthracycline-plus-taxane-based regimens, dose-dense and standard-interval regimens. Lipid profiles that contained TG (triglyceride), TC (total cholesterol), HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and Lpa (lipoprotein a) levels were collected prior to the first, second and last cycles of chemotherapy. The changes of serum lipids with the same or different chemotherapy regimens were analyzed and compared.

Results

It was observed that the levels of TG, TC, LDL-C and Lpa increased significantly while that of HDL-C decreased after adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer patients (P<0.05). Besides, dose-dense regimens had more influence in TG and HDL-C and less influence in TC and LDL-C than standard-interval regimens. HDL-C was more sensitive to anthracycline-based regimens than taxane-based regimens. The level of TG with anthracycline-plus-taxane-based regimens was higher than that with only anthracycline-based or taxane-based regimens, and the level of HDL-C with anthracycline-plus-taxane-based regimen showed lower than that with taxane-based regimen.

Conclusion

In summary, this study proposed that dyslipidemia was strongly associated with chemotherapy in Chinese breast cancer patients after operative treatment. Furthermore, the changes in levels of serum lipids varied among patients with different chemotherapy regimens and taxane had less effect on dyslipidemia than anthracycline.

Adjuvant chemotherapy-associated lipid changes in breast cancer patients: A real-word retrospective analysis

Adjuvant chemotherapy may cause alterations in serum lipids in postoperative breast cancer (BC) patients, but the specific alterations caused by different chemotherapy regimens remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the status of serum lipids pre- and post-chemotherapy and to compare the side effects of different chemotherapy regimens on serum lipid.We retrospectively analysed the lipid profiles of 1934 consecutive postoperative BC patients who received one of the following chemotherapy regimens:The levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterols (TC), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) were significantly elevated in patients who received chemotherapy regimens above (P < .001). With respect to different chemotherapy regimens, FEC had less side effects on lipid profiles (TG (P = .006), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) (P < .001), and LDL-C (P < .001)) than TC regimen and AC-T and EC-T regimen. Also, the incidence of newly diagnosed dyslipidemia after chemotherapy was lower in FEC group than TC group and AC-T and EC-T group (P < .001). Additionally, the magnitude of the alterations in lipid profiles (TG, TC, HDL-C, and LDL-C) was greater in premenopausal patients than that of the postmenopausal patients (P = .004; P < .001; P = .002; P = .003, respectively). Moreover, after adjusting for multiple baseline covariates, anthracycline-plus-taxane-based regimens (AC-T and EC-T) were still statistically associated with a high level of TG (P = .004) and a low level of HDL-C (P = .033) after chemotherapy compared with FEC regimen. Also, body mass index (BMI) > 24 was associated with abnormal lipid profiles (TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C) post-chemotherapy compared with BMI ≤ 24 (P < .001; P = .036; P = .012; P = .048, respectively).BC patients receiving chemotherapy may have elevated lipid profiles, and anthracycline-based regimen had less side effects on lipid profiles compared with regimens containing taxane. Therefore, it is necessary to take lipid metabolism into consideration when making chemotherapy decisions and dyslipidemia prevention and corresponding interventions are indispensable during the whole chemotherapy period.

Association of Early-Stage Breast Cancer and Subsequent Chemotherapy With Risk of Atrial Fibrillation

IMPORTANCE

Several types of cancer have been linked to a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF). Fewer data exist regarding early-stage breast cancer (EBC), for which cardio-oncology concerns are more pertinent.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of EBC and subsequent chemotherapy with the risk of developing AF.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This was a population-based, retrospective, matched cohort study conducted in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, of 68 113 women diagnosed with EBC between April 2007 and December 2016 who were matched 1:3 to a cancer-free control group based on birth year and receipt of breast imaging. Prevalence of AF before the index date (date of EBC diagnosis) was compared between the cohorts using the McNemar test. Cumulative incidence function curves were used to describe the AF incidence. To study preexisting AF, participants were matched before exclusion for prior AF. For the remaining analyses, we excluded women with prior AF before matching. An analysis was conducted beginning 1 year after the index date (ie, excluding AF diagnoses in year 1), which we stratified by chemotherapy exposure. Multivariable cause-specific regression was used to determine the hazard ratio (HR) associated with EBC relative to the controls and the association of chemotherapy with AF in patients with EBC.

EXPOSURES

Breast cancer and chemotherapy.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Incidence of AF.

RESULTS

A total of 68 113 women with EBC and 204 330 cancer-free controls were included in the study; both groups had a mean (SD) age of 60 (13) years. Of the women with EBC, 44.3% were diagnosed as having stage I breast cancer; 38.7%, stage II; and 13.4%, stage III; cancer stage information was missing for 3.6% of the patients. No difference was observed in preexisting AF prevalence (5.3% in the EBC cohort vs 5.2% in controls; P = .21). At 10 years after the index date, the AF incidence was 7.4% (95% CI, 7.1%-7.7%) for women with EBC and 6.8% (95% CI, 6.7%-7.0%) for the controls (P < .001). The adjusted cause-specific HR was significantly elevated at year 1 (HR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.94-2.41) and after year 5 (HR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.11-1.30) but not during years 2 through 5. Analyses beginning 1 year after diagnosis showed attenuated differences that remained statistically significant: the cumulative incidence of AF at 9-year follow-up was 7.0% (95% CI, 6.7%-7.3%) for patients with EBC and 6.5% (95% CI, 6.3%-6.7%) for the cancer-free controls. The rate of AF was higher in women who received chemotherapy (adjusted HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.13-1.35) but was not associated with exposure to anthracyclines or trastuzumab.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study's findings suggest that patients with EBC may not have a higher prevalence of AF before cancer diagnosis. A higher rate of AF was observed in the first year and after 5 years following the EBC diagnosis. The rate of AF was higher in patients who received chemotherapy but appeared to not be associated with specific cardiotoxic agents. These findings suggest that the early and late periods of increased AF risk in EBC survivors warrant focused research to better understand the underlying causes and subsequent implications.

Changes in lipid profiles during and after (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy in women with early-stage breast cancer: A retrospective study

Many different treatments may affect the serum lipid profiles of breast cancer patients. This study analyzed serum lipid levels at different periods during treatment to observe the changes in lipid profiles during and after chemotherapy and to compare the different effects of different chemotherapy regimens on serum lipid profiles. A total of 805 patients were included in this study. We measured the lipid profiles of patients who received surgery without chemotherapy prior to the operation and at 3, 6 and 12 months after operation. In addition, in patients who underwent chemotherapy, the lipid profiles were measured prior to chemotherapy, prior to the last cycle of chemotherapy and 6 months after chemotherapy. Lipid profile measurements included total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), homocysteine (HCY), and uric acid (UA). (Neo)Adjuvant chemotherapy exerted an adverse temporary effect on lipid levels (manifested as increased TG and LDL-C levels, and decreased HDL-C levels, particularly in the adjuvant chemotherapy group) during the chemotherapy periods. However, this influence was not sustained, as the lipid profiles levels were generally restored to baseline levels 6 months after chemotherapy completion. Different age groups showed different changes in lipid levels that were influenced by chemotherapy. The younger group (20-40 years old) showed a greater increase in TC and LDL-C levels during chemotherapy than the 41-65-year-old group. Chemotherapy exerts an adverse temporary effect, and the effects of different regimens on lipid levels are similar. Furthermore, lipid profiles in younger women may be more sensitive to chemotherapy.

ADIPOQ rs2241766 SNP as protective marker against DIBC development in Mexican population

BACKGROUND

Adiponectin protein and some variations in its gene, ADIPOQ have recently been associated with cancer because they regulate glucose and lipid metabolism as well as anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory proteins.

AIM

The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between selected biochemical markers, anthropometric indices and ADIPOQ rs2241766 and rs1501299 SNPs in ductal infiltrating breast cancer (DIBC) in a Mexican population.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 64 DIBC patients and 167 healthy women. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis was performed to identify the genotypes of the rs2241766 (exon 2) and rs1501299 (intron 2) ADIPOQ polymorphisms. Corporal composition and biochemical markers included body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-hip ratio (WHR), glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

RESULTS

Patients with DIBC had higher serum glucose, WC and WHR than controls. Intergroup differences in allele and genotype frequencies were found for both polymorphisms (P < 0.05). Patients carrying the rs2241766 TT and TG genotypes had higher values of WC, HC and WHR, but only TG carriers had higher levels of glucose. For the SNP rs1501299, carriers of the GG genotype in the DIBC group had higher values of glucose, WC, HC and WHR than the respective control group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that WC, HC and WHR are better predictors of DIBC than BMI. The ADIPOQ SNP rs2241766 emerges as a protective factor, whereas rs1501299 is a risk factor for DIBC development in a Mexican population.

Dietary assessment of women surviving breast cancer according to the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population

ABSTRACT Objective Review the diet and nutritional status of women surviving breast cancer following the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 201 women, who underwent anthropometric measurements to determine body mass index, waist circumference and waist/hip ratio. Dietary assessment was performed usinga food frequency questionnaire. Consumption was stratifi ed into four groups: fresh/minimally processed food (Group 1), processed food ingredients (Group 2), processed food (Group 3) and ultra-processed food (Group 4).The ratio of daily contribution of each food group to total calories and macronutrients supply was calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square tests and Spearman correlation, with p<0.05 as significance level. Results The mean age was 50 ± 11 years. An abdominal fat accumulation with a high excess weight condition in women under 60 years of age (p=0.003) was observed. A greater intake of group 1 food, but contributing with about 1/3 of the calories and macronutrients total intake as compared to food groups 3 and 4 was also observed. Conclusion The women assessed consumed a higher proportion of calories and macronutrients from fresh/minimally processed food. There is no theoretical reference that allows to affirm that the amount of processed andultra-processed food consumed represents a health hazard for those women. There was no association between dietary intake, nutritional status and age group.

Effect of chemotherapy and aromatase inhibitors in the adjuvant treatment of breast cancer on glucose and insulin metabolism-A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women worldwide. With increasing survival rates, focus has expanded to long-term adverse effects of adjuvant chemotherapy and/or aromatase inhibitors. Weight gain during chemotherapy has been well documented, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. A change in glucose and insulin metabolism is a possible consequence.

METHODS

We searched PubMed on the 4th of May 2018, and found eight articles that compared measurements of glucose and insulin before and after chemotherapy and/or aromatase inhibitors in woman with BC.

RESULTS

A general trend of increased glucose and insulin is seen and likely to be caused by weight gain and/or changes in body composition as a consequence of adjuvant treatment of BC.

DISCUSSION

Due to methodological limitations including short follow-up times and small sample sizes, further studies are required to better describe metabolic consequences of adjuvant chemotherapy and/or aromatase inhibitors. Future studies could help identify patients in high-risk of developing cardiometabolic disease after BC treatment.

Prospective Study on Body Composition, Energy Balance and Biological Factors Changes in Post-menopausal Women with Breast Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Chemotherapy Including Taxanes

In breast cancer patients, weight and fat mass changes observed after chemotherapy have been related to poor prognosis but some recent works using modern chemotherapy failed to find this correlation with weight gain. In this study, the extent of changes in weight and body composition (DEXA, impedance) was characterized until six months after current chemotherapy, in 50 post-menopausal women with breast cancer. The evolution of factors contributing to the energy balance and some biological factors were also described. During chemotherapy, 20% of women lost weight due to both fat (-13.1% ± 10.3) and lean soft tissue mass loss (-3.6% ± 4.6). Twenty percent of women gained weight. No significant fat mass gain was observed in these women but significant water gain was highlighted. Six months later, women who gained weight presented a gain in fat mass (15.4% ± 19.0), especially in the abdominal region. Age and initial BMI were negatively correlated with fat mass in multivariate analyzes (r = 0.486, P = 0.0030). No significant variation of the glucose homeostasis, triglycerides, and HDL-Cholesterol was found six months after chemotherapy. These results do not suggest major adverse metabolic disturbances six months after modern chemotherapy and only a mild fat mass gain was observed in women who gained weight.

Combined effect of obesity and diabetes on early breast cancer outcome: a prospective observational study

Background

Previous studies suggested that obesity and diabetes were correlated with breast cancer outcome. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic effect of obesity and diabetes on the outcome of early breast cancer patients.

Materials and Methods

Overall, 841 early breast cancer patients were prospectively enrolled between January 2009 and December 2013. Study population was divided into four groups: (1) patients without obesity or diabetes; (2) patients with only diabetes; (3) patients with only obesity; and (4) patients with both diabetes and obesity. Categorical variables were analyzed by the chi-square test and survival data by the log-rank test.

Results

At diagnosis, obese and diabetic patients were more likely to be older (p < 0.0001) and post-menopausal (p < 0.0001) and to have a tumor larger than 2 cm (p < 0.0001) than patients in groups 1–3. At univariate analyses, obese and diabetic patients had a worse disease-free survival (p = 0.01) and overall survival (p = 0.001) than did patients without obesity and diabetes. At multivariate analyses, the co-presence of obesity and diabetes was an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (hazard ratio=2.62, 95% CI 1.23–5.60) but not for overall survival.

Conclusions

At diagnosis, patients with obesity and diabetes were older, had larger tumors and a worse outcome compared to patients without obesity or diabetes. These data suggest that metabolic health influences the prognosis of patients affected by early breast cancer.

Impact of chemotherapy on perceptions related to food intake in women with breast cancer: A prospective study

Breast cancer (BC) treatment includes mostly chemotherapy (CT), which can cause side effects like nausea, taste changes, early satiety, slow gastric emptying and xerostomia. In this way, the individual’s relationship with food may change during the treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of chemotherapy on perceptions related to food intake of women with BC. Fifty-five women with BC were followed, and data were collected at three periods during first-line CT: beginning (T0), intermediate (T1) and end (T2). A visual analogue scale (VAS) (0 to 10 cm) for hunger, appetite for various food categories and meal enjoyment was investigated. The frequency and intensity of side effects were evaluated using a 4 cm scale. The results showed a higher prevalence of taste changes in T1 (p = 0.044) and more nausea in T1 and T2 (p = 0.018). Furthermore, the intensity of nausea was higher in T2 (p = 0.01) than in the other periods. We observed moderate hunger in T0, T1 and T2 (p = 0.113), but the overall appetite increased between T0 and T2 (p = 0.003). Meal enjoyment was reduced from T0 to T1and returned back to the initial value in T2 (p = 0.021). The appetite for salty (p = 0.004) and spicy (p = 0.03) foods was increased in T1. There was an increase of body weight (p = 0.008), body mass index (BMI) (p = 0.009) and waist circumference (WC) (p = 0.03) during CT. CT changes food hedonism, increasing the overall appetite and the appetite for salty and spicy foods. Moreover, we observed the negative impact of CT on meal enjoyment and an increase in side effects and anthropometric parameters.

Profiles of lipids, blood pressure and weight changes among premenopausal Chinese breast cancer patients after adjuvant chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Adjuvant chemotherapy improves outcome of patients with early breast cancer. However, chemotherapy may be associated with long term toxicities. In this retrospective cohort study, the objectives were to determine body weight, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure and fasting lipids levels of young premenopausal Chinese breast cancer patients after adjuvant chemotherapy. Potential factors associated with these parameters were identified.

METHODS

Eligibility criteria include premenopausal Chinese patients who were diagnosed to have stage I-III breast cancer within 3-10 years, age < 45 and having received adjuvant chemotherapy at the time of breast cancer diagnosis. Information at initial breast cancer diagnosis were retrieved from patients' medical records and include age at diagnosis, tumor characteristics, anti-cancer treatments, blood pressure and body weight and height. At study entry, all patients had additional background demographics collected, as well as blood pressure, body weight and fasting serum lipid profiles measured. Incidence of chemotherapy-related amenorrhoea (CRA) and menopause were determined. Factors associated with weight gain, hypertension and dyslipidaemias were analyzed.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eighty patients were studied. The median age at breast cancer diagnosis was 41 years (range: 24-45). The median time from breast cancer diagnosis to study entry was 5.0 years. The median age at study entry was 46.5 years (range: 28-54). 91.1% developed CRA; 48.9% had become menopausal and 10% were peri-menopausal. Between initial breast cancer diagnosis and the time of study entry, the median weight gain was 1.8 kg; 63.2% gained weight by >2%; 52.1% were overweight/obese; 30.7% had hypertension. Abnormal total-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol occurred in 34.3% and 56.1% respectively. On multivariate analyses, older age was associated with reduced risk while occurrence of CRA and having received taxane-containing regimens were associated with increased risk of weight gain. Oestrogen-receptor positivity was associated with reduced risk while overweight/obese statuses were associated with increased risk of hypertension. Use of tamoxifen was associated with reduced risk of abnormal LDL-cholesterol. Weight gain, overweight/obese, older age, progression to post/peri-menopausal status at study entry, having received corticosteroid premedication before adjuvant chemotherapy and having received taxane-containing adjuvant chemotherapy were associated with increased risk of dyslipidaemias.

CONCLUSION

Among young premenopausal Chinese breast cancer patients who had received adjuvant chemotherapy, the current study has revealed that although there was only a median weight gain of 1.8 kg, there was a nearly 60% increase in abnormal BMI. Further, a significant proportion of patients were detected to have hypertension and dyslipidaemias. Interventional studies with lifestyle modifications are warranted.

Dietary Guidelines for Breast Cancer Patients: A Critical Review

Current dietary guidelines for breast cancer patients (BCPs) fail to address adequate dietary intakes of macro- and micronutrients that may improve patients' nutritional status. This review includes information from the PubMed and Biomed Central databases over the last 15 y concerning dietary guidelines for BCPs and the potential impact of a personalized, nutrient-specific diet on patients' nutritional status during and after antineoplastic treatment. Results indicated that BCPs should receive a nutritional assessment immediately after diagnosis. In addition, they should be encouraged to pursue and maintain a healthy body weight [body mass index (BMI; in kg/m²) 20-24.9], preserving their lean mass and avoiding an increase in fat mass. Therefore, after nutritional status diagnosis, a conservative energy restriction of 500-1000 kcal/d could be considered in the dietary intervention when appropriate. Based on the reviewed information, we propose a personalized nutrition intervention for BCPs during and after antineoplastic treatment. Specifications in the nutritional therapy should be based on the patients' nutritional status, dietary habits, schedule, activities, and cultural preferences. BCPs' daily energy intake should be distributed as follows: <30% fat/d (mainly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids), ∼55% carbohydrates (primarily whole foods such as oats, brown rice, and fruits), and 1.2-1.5 g protein ⋅ kg^-1 ⋅ d^-1 to avoid sarcopenic obesity. Findings suggest that 5-9 servings/d of fruits (∼150 g/serving) and vegetables (∼75 g/serving) should be encouraged. Garlic and cruciferous vegetables must also be part of the nutrition therapy. Adequate dietary intakes of food-based macro- and micronutrients rich in β-carotene and vitamins A, E, and C can both prevent deterioration in BCPs' nutritional status and improve their overall health and prognosis.

An observational study to examine changes in metabolic syndrome components in patients with breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

The authors sought to determine the effect of chemotherapy on the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in premenopausal and postmenopausal women undergoing (neo)adjuvant therapy for early‐stage breast cancer.

METHODS

A total of 86 women with early‐stage (AJCC stage I‐III) breast cancer who were free from clinically diagnosed MetS (defined as 3 of 5 components of MetS) were prospectively tested for the presence of the 5 components of MetS within 1 week before initiating and after completing (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy. The 5 components of MetS measured were waist circumference; blood pressure; and fasting levels of blood glucose, triglycerides, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. Anthropometrics (body weight, percentage body fat, fat mass), lipid profile (total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol), glucose metabolism (insulin, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, glycated hemoglobin), and inflammation (C‐reactive protein) also were examined before initiating and after completing treatment.

RESULTS

The current study included 46 premenopausal and 40 postmenopausal women. All individual MetS components and the overall MetS score were found to be statistically significantly increased (P<.01) after chemotherapy. Body weight, percentage body fat, fat mass, lipids, glucose metabolism, and inflammation also were found to be statistically significantly increased (P<.01).

CONCLUSIONS

A 12‐week to 18‐week course of chemotherapy appears to statistically significantly increase MetS and related anthropometrics, biomarkers of glucose metabolism, and inflammation in patients with early‐stage breast cancer with no preexisting MetS. Lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise may be preventive approaches for use during chemotherapy to reduce the onset of MetS in patients with breast cancer. Cancer 2016. © 2016 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society. Cancer 2016;122:2646–2653. © 2016 American Cancer Society.

Patients with breast cancer who receive (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy experience an impaired metabolic presentation as noted by worsened components of metabolic syndrome, anthropometrics, and biomarkers of glucose metabolism. Lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise may be preventive approaches for use during chemotherapy to reduce the onset of metabolic syndrome in patients with breast cancer.

The relationship of cognitive performance to concurrent symptoms, cancer- and cancer-treatment-related variables in women with early-stage breast cancer: a 2-year longitudinal study

PURPOSE

Cognitive dysfunction in women with breast cancer continues to be an area of intense research interest. The prevalence, severity, timing, and cognitive domains that are most affected, as well as the contribution of cancer and its treatments to cognition, remain unresolved. Thus, longitudinal studies are needed that examine cognitive function during different stages of breast cancer treatment and survivorship. This longitudinal trial followed women with early-stage breast cancer, prior to chemotherapy through 2 years survivorship.

METHODS

In women with early-stage breast cancer (N = -75), performance-based assessment of nine cognitive domains was performed at five time points beginning prior to chemotherapy and finishing 24 months after initial chemotherapy. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the temporal changes in cognitive performance domains, while adjusting for cofactors, including those related to individuals, tumor attributes, chemotherapy (adjuvant or neoadjuvant), radiation, endocrine therapy, and concurrent symptoms.

RESULTS

At baseline, scores on reaction time, complex attention, cognitive flexibility, executive function, and visual memory were lower than 90. At 2 years, all domains improved except for the memory domains (verbal, visual, and composite). Scores on six domains (psychomotor speed, reaction time, complex attention, cognitive flexibility, and visual memory) remained lower than 100 at 2 years. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy and fatigue had strong inverse relationship with cognitive functioning at multiple time points.

CONCLUSION

The low performance-based cognitive scores at baseline and over time warrant further study. Although most scores improved over time, memory did not improve. In all, the level of cognitive function is lower than expected for a majority college-educated sample. Thus, future studies are warranted to replicate these findings and to develop methods for identifying women with cognitive dysfunction pretreatment and into survivorship.