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New South Wales
Jewish Breast Cancer Study
Approximately 5% of all breast cancers are thought to be due to inherited mistakes of breast cancer genes. Two of these genes, known as BRCA1 and BRCA2, have recently been identified, and are thought to account for the majority of inherited breast cancers.
About 1 in 800 people carry mistakes of one of these genes, however recent research has shown that they are found much more commonly in Jewish communities, probably as a result of common ancestors several hundred years ago who passed these mistakes down through the generations.
The American National Institute of Health has provided funding for six centres in the United States, Canada and Australia to investigate the role of these genes in the development of breast and ovarian cancer in Jewish women and the impact of reproductive and lifestyle factors on the effect of these genes.
 Who can participate?
Any Jewish woman who has ever been diagnosed with either breast or ovarian cancer, or who has a family history of breast or ovarian cancer (one or more affected blood relatives) is eligible to participate in the study.
What is involved?
If you agree to be apart of the study, you will be asked to complete several questionnaires. These will ask about your medical and reproductive history, lifestyle, diet and your family history of cancer.
A small blood sample will also be taken to test for the breast cancer gene mistakes which are more common in Jewish women.
Some people will wish to know these results, others won't. Since a gene test has implications which are different from other blood tests, these issues will be discussed with you in detail before you make your decision.
We recognise the importance of this information and will ensure your results remain confidential.
If you would like to particpate or require more information, please discuss with your doctor, or contact:
Dr Lesley Andrews
Hereditary Cancer Research Officer
Prince of Wales Hospital
+61 2 9382-2590
Dr Kathy Tucker
Hereditary Cancer Clinic
Prince of Wales Hospital
+61 2 9382-2577
Dr Judy Kirk
Familial Cancer Clinic
Westmead Hospital
+61 2 9845-6947
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