Investigating the cognitive effects of breast cancer treatment over time
A longitudinal, nationally representative study of cognition-related effects of breast cancer and its treatment
This study is looking at how certain breast cancer treatments, especially anti-estrogen medications, might impact thinking and memory in survivors over five years, comparing their experiences to other women with and without breast cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900593 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines how breast cancer treatments, particularly anti-estrogen agents like aromatase inhibitors, affect cognitive function in survivors. By analyzing data from a large, nationally representative survey, the study aims to track cognitive changes in breast cancer patients over a five-year period. Participants will be compared to women who have breast cancer but do not receive this treatment, as well as to women without cancer. This approach will help identify the extent and duration of cognitive impairment related to breast cancer therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and are undergoing or have undergone treatment with aromatase inhibitors.
Not a fit: Patients who have not been diagnosed with breast cancer or those who are not receiving aromatase inhibitors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of cognitive side effects in breast cancer survivors, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited empirical research on the cognitive effects of aromatase inhibitors, similar studies on cancer-related cognitive impairment have shown significant findings, indicating potential for impactful results in this area.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nattinger, Ann B — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Nattinger, Ann B
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.