Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Confirmation of the Link Between Endocrine Disruptors Exposure and Breast Cancer and Identification of Biological Response Biomarkers

This study is investigating if there's a connection between certain chemicals in our environment, called endocrine disruptors (EDs), and breast cancer. These EDs are found in many everyday things and can get into our bodies. Scientists want to understand how our bodies react to these chemicals and if they play a role in breast cancer. They will collect biological information and samples, like breast tissue, from women who are already having surgery for a breast lump. By studying these samples, they hope to find certain markers or signs in the body that show how EDs might influence breast health and lead to breast cancer. This research aims to confirm the link between these chemicals and breast cancer and to help us better understand how our environment impacts our health.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Poitiers University Hospital

Enrolment target

Start

01 Jun 2026

Estimated completion

01 Feb 2027

Breast Cancer Endocrine Disruptors Metabolomics Breast Lesions

What is this study about?

Many chemicals are all around us in our daily lives, from what we eat and drink to the air we breathe and the products we use. Some of these chemicals are known as 'endocrine disruptors' (EDs) because they can interfere with our body's hormone system. Hormones are like messengers that control many important functions in our body, including how our cells grow and develop. Scientists are increasingly concerned about how these EDs might affect our health, and there's a growing belief that they could play a role in long-term health problems like cancer.

This study specifically focuses on breast cancer. Researchers want to confirm if being exposed to EDs increases the risk of breast cancer. They also want to find specific natural changes within the body – called 'biological response biomarkers' – that show how a person's body is reacting to these chemicals. These markers could help us understand *how* EDs might contribute to breast cancer development.

To do this, the study will collect information and samples from women who are already scheduled to have surgery to remove a breast lump. By studying the breast tissue itself, along with other samples like blood or urine, scientists can look closely at the levels of EDs in the body and in the breast tissue. They will also look for those biological markers to see if there's a pattern linking ED exposure, these body reactions, and the presence of breast lesions. This research is important because it could help us better understand the environmental causes of breast cancer and potentially lead to new ways to prevent or treat it.

Key takeaways

This study investigates the link between environmental chemicals (endocrine disruptors) and breast cancer.
It aims to find biological 'markers' in the body that show reaction to these chemicals.
Participation involves collecting samples (like breast tissue, blood, urine) during planned surgery.
There are no extra appointments, medications, or changes to your treatment.
The study helps advance understanding of breast cancer causes, with no direct personal benefit.
You can withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women aged 18 or older who are having surgery to remove a breast lump. This means you would already be scheduled for this operation.

To take part, you would need to be informed about the study by your surgeon during your pre-surgery appointment and then agree to join by signing a consent form. You must also be able to make your own decisions and not be under any special legal protection, like guardianship.

There are also some women who cannot take part. These include pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as anyone who is in an emergency medical situation, or who is currently in detention or a health or social care facility where their freedom is restricted. The study also cannot include minors or adults who are under special legal protection.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you a woman?
Are you already scheduled for surgery to remove a breast lump?
Are you able to provide consent for yourself?
Are you not pregnant or breastfeeding?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you won't need any extra visits or appointments outside of your usual medical care. The study will mainly involve collecting samples and information during procedures you're already scheduled for. This includes collecting some types of biological samples, such as breast tissue during your surgery, and possibly blood or urine samples. The researchers will also gather some of your clinical information from your medical records. You won't be given any new medications or treatments as part of this study. There is no specific follow-up period separate from your standard medical care, as the study focuses on collecting data at the time of your surgery and analysing it afterwards. The total duration of your participation would be limited to the collection of these samples and data.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study does not involve any additional medical procedures or changes to your treatment, so there are no direct medical risks beyond those associated with your planned surgery. You also won't receive any direct personal benefit from taking part. However, the information gathered from your samples and data will be valuable for scientific research, helping us to better understand the potential connection between environmental chemicals and breast cancer. This knowledge could eventually lead to new ways to prevent or treat breast cancer in the future, benefiting others. You are completely free to decide if you want to take part, and you can withdraw your consent at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

Poitiers University Hospital
Verified postcode
Poitiers, France

Common questions

What are endocrine disruptors?

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals found in our environment that can interfere with our body's hormone system, which controls many important body functions.

Will taking part in this study change my breast cancer treatment?

No, this study will not change your planned breast cancer treatment or surgery in any way. It only involves collecting information and samples during procedures you're already having.

Do I have to do anything extra if I join?

Your participation will not require any extra appointments or visits. The study will collect samples and information during your existing hospital visits and surgery.

Will I get results about my own chemical exposure?

No, the research focuses on general patterns and insights, not individual results. You will not receive personal results about your chemical exposure levels.

Can I change my mind after I agree to join?

Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your medical care or relationship with your doctor.

How to find out more

Guillaume Binson, PharmD, PhD

guillaume.binson@chu-poitiers.fr +33 (5) 49 44 44 44 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.