Understanding how aging affects the progression of ER+ breast cancer in older women

Promotion of ER+ Breast Cancer Progression in the Elderly

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10898759

This study looks at how breast cancer behaves in women aged 70 and older, especially those with estrogen receptor positive (ER+) cancer, to see if some aggressive treatments can be skipped without harming their chances of living longer, all while considering how aging and inflammation affect their condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898759 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the unique characteristics of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer in elderly women, particularly those aged 70 and older. It focuses on how aging influences cancer behavior and treatment responses, especially in the context of chronic inflammation and changes in estrogen signaling. The study aims to explore whether certain invasive treatments can be safely avoided in older patients without negatively impacting their survival outcomes. By examining the biological and clinical differences in ER+ breast cancer among older patients, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies tailored for this age group.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are elderly women aged 70 and older who have been diagnosed with early-stage ER+ breast cancer.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 70 or those with non-ER+ breast cancer may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less invasive treatment options for elderly women with ER+ breast cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in de-implementing invasive treatments for elderly patients with early-stage ER+ breast cancer, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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.