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Ovarian Cancer Health Centre
Research |
Genetic
Risk and Ovarian Cancer
Approximately ten percent of
the cases of ovarian cancers are linked to specific genetic mutations
inherited in families. These mutations called BRCA1 and BRCA2 are also
linked to breast cancer. Women's College Research Institute (WCRI),
one of the sponsors of this site, has made the occurrence, prevention
and treatment of these mutations a primary research focus.
WCRI researchers have tested
many populations of women in Canada and around the world to explore how
often these mutations occur. In Canada, special attention has been paid
to Jewish and French-Canadian women because of the increased frequency
of mutations in these populations. International research not only looks
at the frequency of these mutations among specific ethnic groups but also
explores the variations in cancer risk associated with different lifestyles
and diets. Here are some examples of the Institute's work:
The WCRI holds the largest
registry of BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carriers in the world, with over 30 contributing
centres. To date, clinical and risk factor information has been recorded
for over 2,300 women from North America, including 1,341 carriers. This
database has been used to help evaluate treatment strategies and to identify
ways in which women who carry these genetic mutations might be able to
lower their cancer risk. Researchers at the WCRI have also studied the
impact of mutation detection on the physical and psychological well-being
of these women and continue to monitor their health in the clinic and
in research studies. Use the links below to learn more about these investigations:
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