UC doctors search for cause of breast cancer

Statistically, more women are aware of the risks for breast cancer each year, and although they might take the recommended steps to protect their health, researchers have yet to pinpoint the exact cause of the cancer.

Common factors in the onset of breast cancer include having children before the age of 20, or after 30, as well as premature pubescence in which the menstrual cycle begins earlier than age 10, said Dr. Kathy Havlin, associate professor of chronic medicine at the University of Cincinnati.

“The longer there is unopposed estrogen, the higher the risk becomes,” Havlin said.

Although a woman cannot control her age and the risks that follow, she can outline a family tree to test the genetic possibilities.

“Pure heredity is responsible for only 10 percent of all breast cancer cases,” Havlin said. “We look at two genes, specifically, BREA1 and BREA2.”

Aside from contributing factors, doctors are responsible for customized treatment dependent on the patient’s age, lifestyle, medical history, the size and stage of the tumor, Havlin said.

“One breast cancer is not like another breast cancer,” Havlin said.

“There is a different makeup of tumors and the treatment depends on that makeup. We gather more genetic information, look at the reoccurrence risk by performing an Oncotype DX.”

Oncotype DX is a diagnostic test on the tumor used to assess the likelihood of the tumor’s return.

This test is used when a patient must consider chemotherapy in addition to hormone therapy since the majority of breast cancer is rooted in estrogen, according to the Breast Cancer non-profit organization.

As it is an isolated problem, the cancer does not necessarily affect other areas of a woman’s body. The effects depend on the treatment and some women experience fertility issues, Havlin said.

Tamoxifen, raloxifene and tibolone are drugs noted to decrease the chances of developing the cancer and help control it, especially in postmenopausal women. Nationwide studies are still underway to confirm the results. The Charles M. Barrett Cancer Center at University Hospital is also taking part in the research.

“It is a multidisciplinary cancer,” Havlin said. “We are always doing radiation studies and clinical trials as an attempt to improve.”

Instead of drug, chemical and hormonal treatments, there are two surgical options. One type is a lumpectomy, or removal of the affected area while the second type of surgery is a mastectomy, either a complete or partial removal of the breasts.

Every year, one in eight women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Doctors recommend a balanced diet, regular exercise, vitamins and annual mammograms or physicals to stay up-to-date with personal health.

“We don’t know exactly what causes it,” Havlin said. “Women can eat right and exercise and still experience the inevitable.”