Grant: Chair: CIHR Sex and Gender Science Chair - Cancer Research

Colorectal, lung, breast and prostate cancers represent more than half of all cancers diagnoses and deaths among Canadians. Men are more likely to develop colorectal cancer and lung cancer than women. Different environmental, lifestyle and biologic factors may explain this risk difference. However, sex hormones, an obvious difference between men and women, have been shown to affect the development of various cancers. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interferes with the proper functioning of sex hormones. We are exposed to these chemicals in the environment and in diet; however, workers in certain sectors are highly exposed to endocrine disruptors. In this research program, we will examine whether exposure to endocrine disruptors in the workplace increases the risk of cancers. Three projects are proposed to use data collected as part of ongoing studies in Canada and abroad. In Project 1, we determine whether workers exposed to endocrine disruptors are at an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancer. Project 2 focuses specifically on breast cancer to examine whether workplace exposure to endocrine disruptors and genetic factors that predispose individuals to the effects of these chemicals may mutually increase risk. Finally, Project 3 undertakes a more mechanistic approach to relate workplace exposures to endocrine disruptors and sex hormone levels measured in the blood. Given that this research program is based on using existing data, this program offers a valuable opportunity to examine, in a short time frame and at low cost, whether endocrine disruptors play an important role in cancer risk.