Discovering Breast Cancer in Guangzhou: A Study's Journey

In the bustling city of Guangzhou, China, a significant research project called the Guangzhou Breast Cancer Study (GBCS) started in 2008. Its mission? To uncover what makes breast cancer (BC) so common in South China, especially among women aged 41-60. The study is like a big puzzle with three main parts: a cohort of 5, 471 breast cancer patients, a case-control study with 1, 551 cases and 1, 605 healthy participants, and an immunohistochemistry (IHC) cohort with 1, 063 patients. The researchers are interested in how different factors influence breast cancer. They collect a lot of information, like demographics, lifestyle, and even genetic markers. They follow up with the participants every three months in the first year, every six months in the next two years, and once a year after that. Impressively, they've managed to keep most participants engaged, with 73. 5% in the main cohort and 98. 6% in the IHC cohort still active as of 2023. This study isn't just about collecting data; it's about using that data to find better ways to prevent and treat breast cancer. By inviting global collaborations, they hope to share their findings and learn from others. Researchers interested in working together can reach out to the team.