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New research on genetic testing?

Page last modified on: August 26, 2008
Question from Website Question: What new research is being done in the whole field of genetic testing for breast cancer?
Answers —Terri McHugh, M.D.: There is ongoing research to identify other genes or combinations of genes that increase risk of breast cancer.
Carol Cherry, M.S.N., R.N., A.P.R.N., B.C.: There's an area of research looking at what is called genetic modifier genes (genes that would work in conjunction with those genes we have already identified like BRCA1 and BRCA2). They may help us understand why certain people are more at risk for developing breast cancer, whereas others are more at risk for developing ovarian cancer, as well as the penetrance of cancer in other family members.

There is an excellent resource for families who carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and that is found through a website called Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered, or FORCE, and the website is www.facingourrisk.org. FORCE does a great job of providing education and support to families affected with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Most of their work is done online, but they also sponsor annual conferences. The next one is coming up in May 16-17 in Tampa, Florida. There is also a local Philadelphia-area chapter of FORCE that meets for education and support

On Wednesday, March 19, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Breast Cancer Risk and Your Family. Carol Cherry, M.S.N., R.N., A.P.R.N., B.C. and Terri McHugh, M.D. answered your questions about how family genes affect risk, pros and cons of genetic testing, and ways to lower your breast cancer risk.

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.

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Meet the Experts

Carol Cherry, M.S.N., R.N., A.P.R.N., B.C.Carol Cherry, M.S.N, R.N., A.P.R.N, B.C. is health educator, Research Project Manager, and Cancer Risk Counselor in the Margaret Dyson Family Risk Assessment Program at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Pennsylvania.

Terri McHugh, M.D. is a medical oncologist/hematologist and director of the Cancer Risk Assessment and Genetics program.

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