Headlines
As reported by WTNH Channel 8, March 7, 2008.
New Breast Cancer Study
By Jocelyn Maminta
Every 30 seconds a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, but you can do something about that.
The focus is on a new class of aromatasen inhibitors.
"We're asking whether that new generation of medications can reduce breast cancer risks among high risk women," Dr. Richard Everson of the UConn Health Center said. He's is among the investigators of the study.
"We believe -- and its just our estimate -- we believe the benefits are quite similar in reducing risk of breast cancer about 50 %," Dr. Everson said.
There are currently two FDA approved drugs -- Tamoxifen and Raloxifene -- to help prevent breast cancer. However, both come with certain risks, including uterine cancer and stroke.
So far, preliminary results from this study show fewer side effects.
"It's going to weaken bone health," Dr. Everson said. "This bar is a caution, there will be some increased risk of fracture."
About 2,500 high risk women have already signed up for the study, but hundreds more are still needed. It is a placebo controlled study, so only half will get the drug.
However, women like Sandy Kressner, who recently had a questionable mammogram, say getting involved in clinical trials would be empowering.
"The way it was scattered, and just the shape and formation, once the mammogram was read, the radiologist felt a second opinion from a breast surgeon was in order," Kressner said. "I think just knowing that I was eligible for the study would be enough to really motivate me to take part in the study."
Your family history and whether or not you've had breast biopsies can increase the odds of taking part in the study.
For more information call 1-800-4-CANCER (444-6237) or visit www.excelstudy.com.