The effects of breastfeeding on breast cancer risk

Lactation on Breast Tumorigenesis

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11072017

This study looks at how breastfeeding and having children later in life might affect the chances of developing breast cancer, especially for women with early signs of breast issues, to help them make better choices about breastfeeding.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11072017 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how breastfeeding and pregnancy influence the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly in women who have their first child at an older age. It aims to understand the relationship between lactation and the progression of early breast lesions to cancer. By examining both epidemiological data and experimental models, the study seeks to clarify the roles of pregnancy and lactation in breast cancer risk. The findings could help women make informed choices about breastfeeding, especially those diagnosed with atypical breast lesions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include women who are considering pregnancy or have recently given birth, particularly those over the age of 35 or those diagnosed with atypical breast lesions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or have not recently given birth may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights that help women make informed decisions about breastfeeding and its implications for breast cancer risk.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on the effects of pregnancy on breast cancer risk, the specific focus on lactation's role in this context is less explored, making this research relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.