Breast cancer is a major global health concern and is one of the most common types of cancer among women. Its early detection and effective treatment can significantly improve survival rates. Regular screening, self-examinations, and awareness of symptoms can lead to early diagnosis, improving the chances of successful treatment. Additionally, ongoing research in the field is critical to improving therapy options, understanding its causes, and potentially finding a cure. It's vital to continue raising awareness about breast cancer, supporting research, and ensuring access to care for all who need it.

Breast cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the breast cells. As of 2020, it was the most often diagnosed cancer worldwide, surpassing lung and prostate cancers, and its prevalence is expanding rapidly. Breast cancer develops in the lining cells of the ducts or lobules in the glandular tissue of the breast, and the malignant development is initially contained in the duct or lobule, where it usually produces no symptoms and has a low potential for dissemination. However, breast cancer may progress to malignancy and spread to other regions of the body over time. Improved detection has led to an increase in breast cancer incidence in many countries, while some of the rise, particularly in less developed nations, may be related to changes in female fertility. Moreover, breast cancer represents a heterogeneous disease that can be classified into four molecular subtypes based on the expression of the oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). Although there have been significant advances in breast cancer therapies, a significant percentage of patients still develop metastasis and disease recurrence. Additionally, addressing breast cancer at a global level presents important challenges and critical disparities, with 40% of countries reporting important management and treatment gaps. Some of the challenges in breast cancer treatment include identifying the most effective treatment strategies for each subtype, reducing the risk of metastasis and recurrence, and addressing the disparities in access to care and treatment.

Additionally, while there have been significant advancements in breast cancer therapies, many of them have significant side effects that can negatively impact patients' quality of life. Research into new treatment options, such as immunotherapy, is ongoing. As such, more research is strongly needed to reduce the burden of this fatal disease.

Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including breast cancer. It arises when there's an imbalance between the body's production of harmful reactive oxygen species and its capacity to detoxify the reactive intermediates or repair the resulting damage. This stress can cause DNA damage, changes in gene expression, and disruption of cellular functioning -- all of which can potentially lead to the initiation and progression as well as inhibition of breast cancer. Therefore, understanding the role of oxidative stress in breast cancer could not only help with early detection but might also open doors to new therapeutic strategies.

This research topic aims to explore innovative approaches in oxidative stress treatment for breast cancer. We welcome original research and review manuscripts that address research questions related to the following topics:
• Possible current and novel molecular pathways as a target for oxidative stress treatment
• Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitrogen-reactive species as the main sources of drug-mediated oxidative stress.
• Possible role of oxidative stress in ferroptosis and apoptosis.
• Molecular pathways that induce resistance to the oxidative stress treatment.
• Novel drugs with the main mechanism of action producing oxidative stress (e.g., High-dose Vitamin C and Curcumin).

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Frontiers in Oncology

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