My Breakthrough
The EMBRACE study
What is the EMBRACE Study?
The EMBRACE, or Epidemiological Study of Familial Breast Cancer, is a study funded by Cancer Research UK, to establish the best way to manage someone who has inherited a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.
What is the aim of the study?
The study aims to create a register of people with BRCA mutations, and their relatives, in order to:- Find out how many people go on to develop cancer
- Identify genetic and environmental factors that may play a part in the development of cancer
- Examine how effective different procedures (such as mastectomy and/or oophorectomy) are in preventing cancer.
Who do we need to participate?
You can enter this study if there is a faulty BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene in your family and- You have had genetic testing for BRCA1 or BRCA2 or there are plans to test you for these faulty genes in the future
- You had genetic counselling and have been offered testing for these faulty genes, but have decided not to have the test
OR
You should also be
- Well enough to take part in the study
- At least 18 years of age
How will the study work?
EMBRACE aims to recruit about 7500 women and a smaller number of men.Participants will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about their medical history and lifestyle. They may be sent another questionnaire two and five years later to ask about any changes since the first questionnaire.
Participants will also be asked to give a blood sample. If they do not want to give blood, they can still participate in the study. Participants may also be asked for another blood sample two and five years later.
As part of the study, researchers may want to access participants’ medical records.
If I am interested in taking part who should I contact?
You cannot volunteer to take part in this study; you must be referred from your genetics clinic. However, if you’d like more information please contact the EMBRACE study team:Susan Peock
CRUK Genetic Epidemiology Unit
Strangeways Research Laboratory
Worts Causeway
Cambridge
CB1 8RN
Tel: 01223 740616
Email: susan.peock@srl.cam.ac.uk
