Headlines

As reported by the Bristol Press, December 21, 2004.

Trial for Those At-risk of Breast Cancer

FARMINGTON - Women at high risk for breast cancer are the focus of a new research study designed to learn more about the cellular changes within the breast and how they may relate to long-term breast health.

The nationwide study, "Serial Evaluation of Ductal Epitheleium" or SEDE is being conducted at the UConn Health Center by cancer specialist Scott Kurtzman, M.D., who, along with researchers from 10 other sites across the country, will evaluate and monitor early cellular changes in the breast milk ducts of women at high-risk for breast cancer.

"For women already at an elevated lifetime risk for breast cancer, our goal is to help determine if the analysis of a woman’s breast duct cells can provide additional information about her near-term risk of developing breast cancer," said Dr. Kurtzman. "This will add to the body of knowledge that we already have about this disease."

To be eligible to participate in the study women must:

  • be between the ages of 35 and 65;
  • have a family history of breast cancer, or BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations; and
  • have no personal history of breast cancer.

Participants in the study will undergo ductal lavage and a clinical breast exam every six months for three years, and a mammogram every 12 months. Participants’ breast health will be monitored for an additional two years. There is no cost to participants for the ductal lavage procedure and monitoring. Mammography, covered by most insurance programs, is considered routine health care and is the responsibly of the patient.

Women at high risk are invited to participate in the SEDE study. To see if you are eligible to participate in the study and for more information, contact Stephanie Simonich at the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center at UConn Health Center at 679-4535.