Polymorphisms in oxidative stress-related genes and mortality in breast cancer patients – Potential differential effects by radiotherapy?

We assessed whether variants in 22 oxidative stress-related genes are associated with mortality of breast cancer patients and whether the associations differ according to radiotherapy. Using a prospective cohort of 1348 postmenopausal breast cancer patients, we estimated hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for 109 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using Cox proportional hazards regression. Validation of results was attempted using two Scandinavian studies. Eleven SNPs in MT2A, NFE2L2, NQO1, PRDX1, and PRDX6 were significantly associated with overall mortality after a median follow-up of 5.7 years. Three SNPs in NQO1 (rs2917667) and in PRDX6 (rs7314, rs4916362) were consistently associated with increased risk of dying across all three study populations (pooled: HR_{NQO1_rs2917667} 1.20, 95% CI 1.00–1.44, p = 0.051; HR_{PRDX6_rs7314} 1.16, 95% CI 1.00–1.35, p = 0.056, HR_{PRDX6_rs4916362} 1.14 95% CI 1.00–1.32, p = 0.062). Potential effect modification by radiotherapy was found for CAT_rs769218. In conclusion, genetic variants in NQO1 and PRDX6 may modify breast cancer prognosis.     

The impact of cystic fibrosis on the working life of patients: A systematic review

Advances in the treatment and management of cystic fibrosis (CF) have led to a substantial increase in patient life expectancy, thus facilitating healthier lives and labour force participation. This review aimed to address the impact of CF on the occupational functioning of patients. A significant proportion of patients were reported to retain a job on a full- or part-time schedule. Less physically demanding occupations were most frequently performed, perhaps due to CF-related inability to sustain a heavy workload. Disease severity parameters (e.g., lung function measurements, or personal, psycho-social, or economic conditions) have been reported as determinant or co-determinant factors for the development of work-related disability. Although further research is necessary, our results may be useful to inform interdisciplinary CF healthcare management, including the assessment of work function, and to define career counselling plans and workplace risk assessment and management strategies to support the personal, social and professional lives of patients.