But questions remain as to how this new treatment can be combined with a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of developing the disease. In the latest episode of the Experts in Sport podcast, Martin Foster talks to Dr Mhairi Morris to find out more.
In a wide-ranging discussion, the potential Anastrozole has in benefitting a large population of women at risk of developing breast cancer is touched upon alongside the effects of body composition and the immune system as prerequisites for the mutation of cells, leading to malignancy.
The benefits of varied exercise become evident throughout the episode, supporting medicinal interventions within cancer patients. Risk factors for developing breast cancer are also addressed, with hormones such as oestrogen contributing to cell mutation.
Dr Morris explains how Anastrozole blocks the enzyme aromatase to reduce oestrogen levels, including how its presence within the body can be a risk factor for mutations causing the disease.
As the second most common cancer in the world, Dr Morris explains how people diagnosed with breast cancer will benefit hugely from the introduction of medications such as Anastrozole, as well as saving the NHS around £15M in treatment costs, preventing trauma and deaths.
Dr Morris is a Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry from the University’s School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, and has been based at Loughborough since 2017. Previously, Dr Morris trained as tumour virologist, completing a PhD at the University of Birmingham.
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The Experts in Sport podcast is a regular series that brings together experts from across Loughborough University with external thought leaders to discuss the latest research and hot topics in sport and academia with new episodes launched regularly.