Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women worldwide, causing both immediate challenges and long-term health implications. While breast cancer intervention is often the primary concern in these cases, understanding the potential long-term impacts of cancer and its treatment is equally significant. One emerging field in this area includes research on vascular aging in breast cancer patients. Recently, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center opened the clinical trial Early Signatures of Vascular Aging in Women with Breast Cancer (UCCC-BRE-21-01) to shed light on the possible links between breast cancer and declines in vascular health.

Breast cancer treatment often involves therapies such as chemotherapy and hormonal interventions. Though these treatments target cancer cells, they can also cause adverse effects on other parts of the body, including the cardiovascular system. Vascular aging, characterized by changes in blood vessels and impaired vascular function, has been identified as a potential consequence of breast cancer treatment. However, it is important to note that vascular aging in relation to breast cancer is a complex process with cancer-related factors, treatment-related effects, and individual genetic differences all contributing to the issue. Continued research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms involved and to develop strategies to best mitigate these risks.

Trial UCCC-BRE-21-01 is designed to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the early signs of vascular aging in women with newly diagnosed, early-stage breast cancer. By examining the vascular health of breast cancer patients, researchers hope to identify potential biomarkers that can assist in the early detection of vascular aging. Through advanced, but non-invasive imaging techniques, this trial intends to establish a baseline for vascular health in breast cancer patients and determine the effects of exercise on either maintaining or improving vascular health over time.

The findings of this clinical trial extend beyond research with the potential to reshape clinical practice, benefiting the local community by improving patient outcomes and overall well-being. Analyzing patient data and treatment histories can reveal patterns and risk factors, leading to earlier detection and the development of personalized treatment plans, including wellness training and regular physical exercise. It could also help guide more informed decisions regarding treatment selection and administration.

Females ages 18 or older with newly diagnosed (in prior 12 months), early-stage (Class 0 or 1A) breast cancer are eligible for this trial. This study will also enroll participants without breast cancer. Healthy participants will be age-matched with breast cancer patients to compare markers of vascular health and the effect of regular physical exercise. If you are interested in being a healthy control, please email Krista Swegheimer, BS, CCRP. We will add your name to this list of those to contact if you meet the initial qualifications for the study.

To learn more about this clinical trial, contact the UCCC Clinical Trials office at 513-584-7698 or email swegheka@ucmail.uc.edu to reach our clinical research staff. You can also find the trial on clinicaltrials.gov or the High Enroll app.