Emma Bruggeman

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. Although high-penetrance mutations in genes such as BRCA1/2 substantially increase risk, most cases occur in individuals without a strong genetic predisposition. This highlights the important, yet still insufficiently understood, role of environmental exposures in shaping cancer susceptibility. Among these exposures, endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) have been increasingly linked to hormone-related cancers. These chemicals, including pesticides, mycotoxins, synthetic hormones, and persistent industrial pollutants such as PFAS, can interfere with hormonal regulation, often by affecting estrogen-related pathways. However, their cumulative impact on breast cancer risk remains poorly understood. My research focuses on how chronic exposure to multiple EDCs interacts with genetic susceptibility to influence breast cancer risk. Using advanced LC MS/MS analytical techniques, I quantify long term exposure to EDCs in human hair, a non-invasive matrix that captures months of cumulative exposure and is particularly suited for exposome research. These exposure profiles are integrated with genomic data from the GLORIA® cohort, including BRCA1/2 mutation status and polygenic risk scores, enabling the study of gene-environment interactions in a real-world population. By linking environmental exposures with inherited risk, my work aims to better understand inter-individual differences in breast cancer development. Ultimately, this research contributes to precision prevention strategies by identifying individuals most vulnerable to environmentally driven cancer risk and supporting evidence-based public health policies.
 

• Bachelor in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2018-2021)
• Master in Pharmaceutical Care (2021-2023)

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2025 - to date)

   

• Lab address: Ottergemsesteenweg 460 – 9000 Ghent
• LinkedIn
• Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology and Public Health
• GLORIA - GEZONDHEIDSMONITOR
• ORCID
• Emma Bruggeman is interested to receive invitations for presentations or talks