Dr. Latimer
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Every October, the nation marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But for one of Nova Southeastern University’s top cancer researchers, every month is dedicated to battling this deadly disease, which is estimated to kill more than 42,000 people in the United States in 2025.
Dr. Jean Latimer, director of the NSU AutoNation Institute for Breast Cancer Research and Care, and other health advocates are expanding the breast cancer conversation beyond genetics and screening to address a growing concern: the lurking environmental factors that pose risks, particularly for younger generations.
“We’ve made tremendous strides in early detection, but it’s equally important to focus on prevention,” she said. “Today’s young adults are inheriting not only our advances in medicine but also the consequences of decades of chemical use in everyday life.”
While breast cancer deaths have declined 43 percent since 1989, the number of new cases continues to rise each year. In the United States, more than 3.8 million women are living with a history of breast cancer. Research indicates that only about 25 percent of cases have a hereditary component, while the remaining 75 percent are influenced by environmental exposures.
Researchers have identified several substances that may increase breast cancer risk. These include:
- Arsenic in tap water, found at up to 243 times higher than recommended levels in some Florida communities.
- Glyphosate, an herbicide widely used in U.S. agriculture and landscaping, classified as a probable human carcinogen by international health agencies.
- Synthetic chemicals developed since the 1950s, now common in plastics, cosmetics, and personal care products.
Although these exposures often occur at low levels, experts caution that cumulative effects over time—combined with lifestyle and genetic factors—may contribute to disease risk.
Gen Z has already demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability, health, and social responsibility. Advocates believe that the same mindfulness guiding their approach to climate and wellness can extend to personal health choices.
“This generation is uniquely positioned to drive change through informed decisions,” said Latimer. “Being aware of what’s in your environment, what you consume, and how you care for your body can have long-term benefits.”
She suggests several simple, accessible ways to reduce exposure and support overall health:
- Use certified water filters to reduce heavy metals and contaminants.
- Choose organic or non-GMO foods, when possible, to limit pesticide residues.
- Check personal care product ingredients with free apps like Think Dirty or EWG’s Healthy Living.
- Support community health initiatives that promote clean water and reduced pesticide use.
If you would like to interview Jean Latimer and learn more about her continuing breast cancer research, please contact NSU’s Division of Public Relations, Marketing, and Creative Services.
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Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is the largest private research university in Florida and a top employer in the state, with more than $5 billion in projected economic impact. NSU is classified as an R1 institution by the Carnegie Foundation among universities with the highest level of research activity. Visit www.nova.edu
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