Skip to content

New research on BRCA1, BRCA2?

Page last modified on: November 20, 2008
Question from Flashdif: Is there any new research or knowledge about the ramifications of BRCA 1 or 2?
Answers —Generosa Grana, M.D., F.A.C.P.: The information presented showed nothing that dramatically changed our understanding of the implications of BRCA 1. One of the leading symposia was presented by Dr. Kenneth Offit from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center where he reviewed issues inherent in genetic counseling and testing for BRCA 1 and 2. He reiterated the goals of testing, which are to inform and help make decisions, and confirmed the fact that although there is concern about genetic discrimination, as yet there has not been documented discrimination.

We showed some small data showing that DCIS (non-invasive breast cancer) can be seen in women who are BRCA 1 and 2-positive and should be considered part of the spectrum of hereditary breast cancer, and others have shown the same with larger numbers. So the important thing is that things haven't changed regarding the risk these mutations impart, but we are more attuned to the individuals needing testing for these mutations.
Marisa Weiss, M.D., president and founder: One study looked at the role of breast preservation therapy (lumpectomy and radiation) compared to mastectomy in women with a breast cancer gene abnormality diagnosed with early- stage breast cancer. This study found that breast preservation therapy was just as effective in these women compared to women without a breast cancer gene abnormality relative to the diagnosed cancer. But, the women with a breast cancer gene abnormality are at higher risk of developing a new and unrelated cancer in the same breast or the other breast over the years, relative to someone without a gene abnormality.

On Wednesday, December 21, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Updates from San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2005. Generosa Grana, M.D., F.A.C.P. and moderator Marisa Weiss, M.D. brought you the highlights of the 2005 Breast Cancer Symposium and answered your questions about the latest diagnostic and treatment options for breast cancer.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

A production of LiveWorld, Inc.
Copyright 2008. All rights reserved.

Email Updates

Stay informed about current research, online events, and more.

Please leave this field empty

Meet the Experts

Generosa Grana, M.D., F.A.C.PGenerosa Grana, M.D., F.A.C.P. is the director of the Cooper Cancer Institute and heads the division of hematology/medical oncology at Cooper University Hospital.

Marisa Weiss, M.D. is a radiation oncologist specializing in breast cancer and the founder, president, and guiding force behind Breastcancer.org.

Back to top

Breastcancer.org 7 East Lancaster Avenue, 3rd Floor Ardmore, PA 19003

Learn more about our commitment to your privacy

© 2009 Breastcancer.org - All rights reserved.

Breastcancer.org is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information and community to those touched by this disease. Learn more about our commitment to providing complete, accurate, and private breast cancer information.