Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring malignant tumor in women, affecting one in 12 women. Most cases occur between the ages of 35 and 75. Affecting about 7 to 10% of female population. It is the most common cause of death in women 35 to 55 years of age in developed countries.

The underlying causes of breast cancer are a subject of an extensive scientific research, while many are still unknown or unclear. The risk factors leading to breast cancer can be divided into two main groups: genetic and non-genetic.

The most important non-genetic risk factor is estrogen and its derivatives. Long term effects and high level of estrogen significantly increase the risk of breast cancer.

A history of non-malignant chronic affections of mammary gland (cystic Mastopathy, fibrocystic mastopathy, dysplasia, high density of mammary gland) represents an increased risk of breast cancer.

Continuous supply of 2α-hydroxyestron is very important for the soft tissue cells of female sex organs such as breasts, uterus and ovaries. 2α-hydroxyestron ensures proper development of breast glands, lining of uterus as well as ovulation cycle. Regulation of the cell growth and multiplication is one of the major specific and physiological functions of estrogen. Estrogen metabolites are divided into so called “good” (2α-hydroxyestron) and „bad“ (16α-hydroxyestron). Under normal conditions these two metabolites are contained in the body at an ideal ratio. When this balance is disrupted towards increased levels of 16α-hydroxyestron, pathological changes may develop in the organism. A direct link between the effects of estrogen and development of estrogen-dependent soft tissue tumors has been demonstrated.

Indole-3-carbinol is used by the body to direct estrogen to the correct metabolic pathway. Indole-3-carbinol shifts the mutual balance between estrogen metabolites towards 2α- hydroxyestrone. Indole-3-carbinol increases the concentration of 2α-hydroxyestron and reduces the 16α-hydroxyestron levels.