A pilot trial at the National Cancer Institute, conducted by the University of Kansas Cancer Center and led by Principal Investigator Lauren Nye aims to explore the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acid in preventing breast cancer among premenopausal women who are considering having children in the future.
The study is particularly focused on women identified as having a high risk of developing breast cancer.
This high-risk group includes women with a family history of breast cancer (a first or second-degree relative diagnosed before the age of 60), those who have had a precancerous biopsy, or women who have a significant risk based on specific breast cancer risk assessment models.
To be eligible for the trial, women must be premenopausal, potentially considering future pregnancies, at least one year removed from their last pregnancy and breastfeeding period, and willing to take omega-3 fatty acid supplements provided by the study.
The study excludes women who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding, undergoing fertility treatments, have an active cancer diagnosis, are on anticoagulation therapy, have bilateral breast implants or tram flap reconstruction, have undergone radiation to both breasts, or have a current breast mass that has not been ruled out for cancer.
The primary goals of the trial are to assess the feasibility of conducting such a study with the targeted group, to document how well participants adhere to taking a moderate dose of omega-3 fatty acids, and to identify any new biomarkers affected by the intake of these fatty acids before and during pregnancy.
Participants in the study will take omega-3 fatty acid supplements daily for six months, with follow-up assessments conducted periodically after the study completion to monitor outcomes and gather additional data.
This research seeks to understand better how omega-3 fatty acids might contribute to breast cancer prevention in a specific, at-risk population group.
