What is BreastWatch?
While a number of tools to assess breast cancer risk
have been identified (e.g. Gail Score and breast density),
these factors tend to apply to populations of women,
and are not reliable predictors at the level of the
individual. The overall goal of this work is to identify
modifiable factors that can be used to quantify and
monitor an individual’s risk for breast cancer.
To accomplish this goal, we propose to establish and
maintain a multi-disciplinary, clinical research program
for women identified at increased risk for breast cancer
using existing criteria. The project will:
- accrue and maintain a cohort of women at increased
risk for breast cancer and offer them the opportunity
to participate in ongoing research related to clinical
issues that are associated with the prevention and early
detection of breast cancer, and
- permit the opportunity for optional collection of
blood, urine and/or breast nipple aspirate fluid that
will be utilized to develop and evaluate tests that
can identify, quantify and follow changes in risk for
breast cancer.
How will this study involve me?
You will be asked to provide medical information about
you and your family. You will be asked to update this
information at each clinical visit.
You may also be asked to participate in research studies
for women at increased risk for breast cancer in order
to help us learn more about prevention and early detection
of breast cancer. These studies are entirely voluntary
and will require a separate consent form.
In addition, the project contains an optional component
in which you will be asked to provide blood, urine and/or
nipple aspirate fluid. These samples will be utilized
to develop and evaluate tests that may help to identify,
quantify and follow changes in an individual’s
breast cancer risk.
Your name and other identifying information will be
separated from the results of your tests as well as
from any written information that you provide us. All
results will be kept in file cabinets located in locked
offices and in encrypted, password protected computer
files. Your identity will be coded as a number on paper
and in the computer alongside your results. Only the
study investigators and the people they designate will
have access to the numeric code, which identifies you
by name. The study results will NOT be put in your medical
records. No HMO’s or insurance companies will
be allowed access to the results.
Who is eligible?
Women who are identified as being at increased risk
for breast cancer will be eligible for this study. Some
factors that may be used for determining risk include:
one or more first degree relatives diagnosed as having
breast cancer and/or atypical hyperplasia in benign
breast biopsies.
What are the costs?
There are no costs to participate in this study apart
from the costs associated with your annual or semi-annual
clinical visit and your annual routine mammography.
Whom do I contact?
Mary Playdon at 303-370-7937 or by email at mary.playdon at colostate.edu
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