Details of Evaluation Methods
Critical Evaluations

BCERF uses a modification of the International Agency for Research on Cancer's (IARC) "weight of evidence approach" in evaluating the evidence for a given factor's potential to affect breast cancer risk. We include available human, experimental animal, and related molecular and mechanistic studies.

Critical evaluations include information from studies available in:

• Peer-reviewed scientific literature
• Technical reports from federal agencies
• "Grey" unpublished literature on the cancer-causing potential for a given chemical.

Critical evaluations are peer-reviewed by Cornell University faculty and staff, and by external reviewers from academic institutions, federal agencies and private research institutes. After peer-review, evaluations are posted on the BCERF web site for a 30-day public comment period.

Critical evaluations do not deal with all aspects of the toxicology or non-cancer health related effects of the environmental factors. They focus specifically on breast cancer risk. For chemicals, we define breast cancer risk broadly since agents that may act as endocrine disruptors, have the capacity to support the growth of breast tumors, or affect the immune system, may have the potential to affect breast cancer risk. For dietary and lifestyle factors, information on the potential to increase or decrease breast cancer risk is presented.

Last Update 03.21.05

Program on Breast Cancer and Environmental Risk Factors
Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine
Vet Box 31, Ithaca, NY 14853-6401
Phone: 607.254.2893; Fax: 607.254.4730
Email: breastcancer@cornell.edu
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