The tissue changes associated with breast cancer can be measured using a non-invasive method of phase angle through BIA. Phase angle has been used to detect changes in tissue that indicate malnutrition. Risk factors for breast cancer include obesity, with its associated changes in cell and tissue density from hormone levels and lifestyle. Studies incorporating phase angle are evaluating its utility in early detection, monitoring for treatment results and predictive value for recurrence of breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Risk for breast cancer in women is associated with age, obesity, body shape, breast size, and breast density. Age is a primary factor because breast cancer risk assessments differ between pre-menopausal and post-menopausal women, due to the effects of changing hormone levels. Obesity is the second important factor in risk assessment because an unhealthy lifestyle and increased body mass distribution can signal changes in breast mass density.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Family history, screening and exams are part of breast cancer diagnosis. A family history gives insight whether you may be genetically predisposed to different types of cancer. Screening tests for genetic or biological markers for the disease. Exams can include physical palpation of breast tissue and laboratory tests such as mammograms, ultrasound, MRI and tissue biopsies.
BIA and Phase Angle
BIA is bioelectrical impedance analysis which is a non-invasive method to evaluate changes in body composition and asses nutritional status. The BIA generates a phase angle to detects electrical changes in body tissue which can signify malnutrition through fluid composition and cellular activity--healthy, uniform cells or abnormal proliferating cells. Since malnutrition is detected in breast cancer patients, phase angle through BIA has been applied to predict survival and to diagnose recurrence.
Breast Cancer Treatment
Treatment for breast cancer includes surgery to remove breast cancer tissue, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormones and biological therapy such as Herceptin. Combination therapy is often prescribed, depending on the extent of the disease and to improve survival and reduce recurrence. Once breast cancer has been diagnosed and treated, regular monitoring and testing are required. Since BIA and phase angle are non-invasive techniques to measure tissue density and activity, the procedure can be an adjunct to treatment strategies and monitoring.
Potential
BIA and phase angle can detect early stages of recurrence because breast cancer cells are abnormal and the patient can show early signs of malnutrition. It can also enhance testing during treatment to better determine the effectiveness of treatment on tissue (e.g., decrease or increase in size and proliferation of lumps). Clinical studies are underway to evaluate the results from phase angle and BIA during various stages of diagnosis and treatment.
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