Pathways Study

The Pathways Study (NCI R01 CA105274, PI: Kushi), is a prospective cohort study of a diverse population of recently diagnosed breast cancer survivors in KPNC. The aims are to examine the effect on recurrence and survival of 1) lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and use of complementary and alternative therapies and 2) molecular factors such as biomarkers of inflammation and tumor DNA methylation profiles. Recruitment into the cohort was from January 2006 to May 2013. Baseline data collection was by in-person interview (on average two months post-diagnosis), with follow-up via mailed or phone questionnaires at 6, 24, and 72 months and outcomes and comorbidities at 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 months post-enrollment. The Pathways Study is now funded through May 2021 as a cancer cohort infrastructure grant (U01 CA195565, MPI: Kushi/Ambrosone). The Pathways baseline interview consists of interviewer- and self-administered questionnaires. Interviewer-administered questionnaires collected information including demographics, family health history, pregnancy health history, menstrual history, history of breast care screening procedures, smoking history, hormone use, medication history, and vitamin and mineral use. Self-administered questionnaires collected information on diet, physical activity, CAM use, lymphedema, and psychosocial and quality of life measures.]]>
Eligibility criteria were: age =>21 years; current KPNC member; recently diagnosed with invasive breast cancer; no prior history of malignant cancer; spoke English, Spanish, Cantonese, or Mandarin; and lived within a 65-mile radius of a field interviewer.]]>
January 2006-May 2013: Participants recruited and enrolled into the Pathways Study. Blood and saliva specimens collected at time of enrollment. July 2006-Present: Ongoing follow-up of cohort via mailed questionnaire, telephone, and web surveys. ]]>