The Association between Telomere Length and Cancer Prognosis: Evidence from a Meta-Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Telomeres are essential for chromosomal integrity and stability. Shortened telomere length (TL) has been associated with risk of cancers and aging-related diseases. Several studies have explored associations between TL and cancer prognosis, but the results are conflicting.

Methods

Prospective studies on the relationship between TL and cancer survival were identified by a search of PubMed up to May 25, 2015. There were no restrictions on the cancer type or DNA source. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis approaches were conducted to determine pooled relative risks and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Thirty-three articles containing forty-five independent studies were ultimately involved in our met

SUBMITTER: Zhang C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4503690 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature