Researchers have found that a simple blood test could help predict breast cancer risk in older women in a study that focuses on epigenetic ageing – a process that reflects how fast the body’s cells age based on DNA methylation changes (DNAm).
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with the risk increasing significantly after menopause.
For the study, the researchers analysed blood samples from postmenopausal, non-Hispanic white women. They discovered that those with an “older” biological age had a significantly higher risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer.
The risk was even greater in women who had their ovaries removed before natural menopause, likely due to reduced oestrogen levels, a hormone that plays a key role in ageing and breast health.
“Of note, in women with bilateral oophorectomy before natural menopause experiencing shorter lifetime oestrogen exposure than those with natural menopause, epigenetic age accel substantially influenced BC development, independent of obesity status and exogeneous oestrogen use,” the researcher said.
The study also found that lifestyle factors influence epigenetic ageing and breast cancer risk. Women with obesity experienced faster biological ageing, which increased their risk of developing cancer. Meanwhile, hormone replacement therapy had varying effects depending on the type and duration of treatment.
Early detection of breast cancer is crucial for effective treatment and survival. Traditional risk assessments such as age, family history, and lifestyle habits may not provide the full picture.
This study suggests that adding a blood test to measure biological aging could help clinicians identify high-risk women earlier and offer personalised prevention strategies.
With further research, this blood test could become a routine screening tool in women’s health check-ups. It may empower women to take proactive steps to reduce their breast cancer risk through healthy lifestyle choices, including maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and considering appropriate hormone therapies under medical supervision.
The researchers said: “Our study contributes to the development of a DNAm biomarker that integrates conventional BC risk factors to better reflect the risk for BC subtypes, promoting epigenetically targeted preventive interventions tailored to aged individuals with high risk.”
In conclusion, further studies are needed to validate these findings and explore their applicability to a broader population of women. However, this research presents a promising, non-invasive, and cost-effective approach to predicting breast cancer risk.
