Work

Assessing Lead Exposure by Biological Matrices Analysis and Links to Breast Cancer: A Critical Review of Experimental and Epidemiological Findings

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: = 2). Among them, 16 reported a positive association between Pb and BC risk (breast tissues: 4; urine: 3; blood: 6; hair: 3; toenails: 0). By contrast, 11 studies found no significant correlation (breast tissues: 2; urine: 3; blood: 3; hair: 1; toenail: 2). Four studies quantified Pb in different matrices, and the same results were obtained from analyses of breast tissue, blood, and hair. Discrepancies across studies included small sample sizes, heterogeneous demographic characteristics, insufficient follow-up, and different Pb assessment methods. While the majority of studies suggest a potential link between Pb exposure and BC, significant heterogeneity in study design and population selection limits definitive conclusions. Future research should standardize Pb measurement protocols in selected populations and explore mechanistic pathways to clarify this potential association and improve prevention strategies.

Source: European Journal of Breast Health

DOI: 10.4274/ejbh.galenos.2025.2025-8-4

Authors: Albert Moussaron, Souleiman El Balkhi, Maria Gonzalez, Carole Mathelin

Institutions: Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Limoges, Institut de génétique et de biologie moléculaire et cellulaire, Institut de Cancérologie Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg

Language: English

Topic: Heavy Metal Exposure and Toxicity

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7117270448