ENDOCRINE AND PARACRINE HORMONES IN THE PROMOTION, PROGRESSION AND RECURRENCE OF BREAST-CANCER

Both normal and neoplastic breast tissues are stimulated by endocrine and paracrine hormones. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated the significant role that hormones, growth factors and cytokines have in t he promotion, progression and recurrence of breast cancer. Significant variations in the hormonal environment occur based on age, the cyclic al changes occurring during the menstrual cycle and (mammographically determined) variations in breast composition. These variations have a significant influence on rates of local recurrence of breast cancer an d survival. This review analyses data relevant to these issues and sug gests means by which operative results may be improved.