Gut bacteria may influence estrogen levels and cancer risks, study reveals

A new study highlights the role of gut bacteria in regulating estrogen levels. The findings, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, suggest a link between microbial health and hormonal balance. Researchers also note that disrupted gut communities may contribute to higher estrogen levels, increasing cancer risks. The study explains how specific gut bacteria and enzymes control estrogen circulation in the body. People in industrial societies and formula-fed infants show a stronger ability to recycle discarded estrogen. This process can lead to excess hormone levels, which are associated with breast and endometrial cancers.

The research proposes that managing gut health through diet or probiotics could help regulate hormones and prevent disease. Separately, it was reported that 75 percent of drug trials over the past 15 years excluded pregnant women. Experts argue that including them in clinical trials would improve drug safety and effectiveness for this group. The study underscores the importance of gut health in hormonal regulation. It also calls for broader inclusion of pregnant women in drug trials to ensure better medical outcomes. Additionally, unrelated research warns that climate change may extend high pollen seasons by up to 19 days, worsening seasonal allergies.