Is there an association between a high dietary glycemic index/glycemic load and the risk of developing gynaecological cancer in women?
Project by Polygence alum Snigdha
Project's result
I submitted my project to the Research Archive of Rising Scholars, and presented my paper in the Symposium of Rising Scholars.
They started it from zero. Are you ready to level up with us?
Summary
This study aimed to investigate the correlation between a carbohydrate-rich diet, measured by the glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL), and the risk of developing gynaecological cancers (GC) such as cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancer. The study involved a comprehensive literature review to gather existing data on the relevant biological mechanisms observed. Data from epidemiological studies, including case-control and cohort studies, was collected from a variety of research journals to ensure the robustness and reliability of the findings. A random-effects meta-analysis model using multiple statistical techniques was then performed to calculate the pooled risk (odds ratio) of a diet high in carbohydrates on GC incidence, which was diagrammatically represented using forest plots. High dietary GI and GL resulted in a pooled effect size of 1.19 (95% confidence interval between 1.04 and 1.35) and 1.17 (95% confidence interval between 1.02-1.35) respectively, suggesting a positive association. No publication bias was found, and moderate heterogeneity was present among the studies that were included in the analysis. As many of the existing studies have inconclusive results and are relatively outdated, this project is crucial in shedding light on lifestyle choices that women can make to reduce their risk, potentially informing future prevention strategies and public health recommendations.
Kim
Polygence mentor
PhD Doctor of Philosophy
Subjects
Medicine, Biology, Computer Science
Expertise
Cancer Biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, bioinformatics, computational science
Snigdha
Student
Graduation Year
2025
Project review
“This project has been an enlightening experience, exposing me to the world of academia and the field of cancer biology. Through Polygence, I was able to combine my two interests—nutrition and gynaecological cancer—into a comprehensive research paper exploring their connection. This experience has motivated me to pursue further research in this field by continuing to collaborate with experts and peers.”
About my mentor
“Dr. Kim Paraiso was extremely supportive, encouraging, and kind, as well as well-versed in her field of cancer biology and epidemiology. Her feedback was particularly helpful when I needed assistance preparing for the Symposium of Rising Scholars, and she served as a significant source of motivation and inspiration.”
Check out their profile