How Integrity of the Connectome and Nutritional Status Change Brain Function in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Up to 78% of women diagnosed with breast cancer experience impairments in their cognitive function (e.g., frequent forgetfulness, slow processing speeds, and difficulties in concentration, multitasking and/or word retrieval) in the course of cancer treatment. These cognitive impairments (CI) have negative effects on patients' social relationships, overall life satisfaction, and treatment adherence. Dietary intake may be an important factor in mitigating risk of CI that breast cancer patients experience. Several studies have suggested that dietary intake of specific nutrients and foods (e.g., carotenoids, B-vitamin, and omega-3 fatty acids rich foods) can be helpful to decrease the severity of cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI). High-quality dietary patterns can be also helpful to protect white matter volume and its integrity; damage to and changes in white matter contributes to CRCI. However, despite the high incidence of CRCI in breast cancer patients, very little is known about etiology of CRCI. Thus, the purpose of this observational study with cross-sectional design is to examine the relationships of diet with brain structural and functional outcomes of breast cancer patients. The study will aim to enroll 30 female postmenopausal breast cancer survivors (age 45-75) who have recently completed chemotherapy treatment within 3-12 months from study enrollment. Participants will complete study questionnaires online, and will have an in-person study visit to complete a functional magnetic resonance imagine (MRI) scan, cognitive testing, and blood sample collection via fingerstick and venous blood draw. It is expected that this study will advance the field's understanding and ability to early assess, manage, and prevent CRCI.