Unlocking the power of geographic information systems for breast cancer risk and prevention

Project Outline

At least 30% of breast cancer risk is unexplained by current risk prediction algorithms which incorporate family history, personal history of benign breast disease, polygenic risk scores, breast density, hormonal and reproductive factors, lifestyle and demographic information. The relationships between risk factors for breast cancer are complex. Environmental risk factors for breast cancer have been proposed, but the evidence is less well developed and these factors are not routinely incorporated in risk prediction algorithms.  In addition to significant disparities in the distribution of risk factors, there are also differences in access to risk prediction and early detection services in different locations. 

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can integrate health data with location-based information to enable us to identify patterns which might not otherwise be obvious and explore barriers to access for those who would benefit from targeted screening. We will initially use the Predicting Risk Of Cancer At Screening (PROCAS) database which provides rich questionnaire-based and genetic metadata for women in Greater Manchester. This can be overlaid on maps showing demographic and socioeconomic data, industrialisation, agricultural areas, major and congested roads and other sources of pollution. We will also incorporate maps showing hospitals, health centres and breast screening locations. AI-based analysis of this geo-spatial data will analyse associations which could potentially improve risk prediction. The proposed approach, in combination with information about screening and prevention uptake across the region, will also facilitate healthcare providers and public health organisations to target interventions more effectively in the community, improve resource allocation, and reduce disparities in access to preventive care. Once implemented, we will extend this approach to the wider population in Greater Manchester, and in future projects, explore similar factors in other cancers.  

Applications for this project are now open. Please complete your application on The University of Manchester website.