Vitamin D Deficiency, Obesity and Breast Cancer Risk

This PhD research project investigates the complex relationship between vitamin D status, obesity, and breast cancer risk. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health and has been associated with reduced risk of several cancers, including breast cancer. However, the relationship between vitamin D status, obesity, and breast cancer risk remains complex and poorly understood. Obesity is a well-established risk factor for breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women, and is also associated with lower vitamin D status due to sequestration in adipose tissue. The project addresses a significant knowledge gap through a comprehensive multi-component study including: (1) a longitudinal study examining the relationship between vitamin D status, obesity markers, and breast cancer risk over time; (2) a pilot human study assessing vitamin D status and obesity, and (3) cell culture work to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the vitamin D-obesity-breast cancer relationship. This research will provide greater understanding of the complex interactions between vitamin D, obesity, and breast cancer risk, facilitating appropriate guidance on vitamin D status and obesity management for breast cancer risk reduction. The position is based in the School of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Leeds.