Markers for Predicting Risk of Breast Cancer in Women of Different Races
Markers for Predicting Risk of Breast Cancer in Women of Different Races
This research is being done to learn more about the risk of developing breast cancer by
 studying cells from both normal breast tissue and breast cancer tumor tissue. The goal is to
 study cells, genes, and gene products to help us to learn how to detect cancer in its
 earliest stages, and if this information may differ in patients with different ethnic
 backgrounds.
Evidence suggests that, besides reduced access to care, the increase in breast cancer
 incidence and mortality in AA (African American) compared to EA (European American or
 Caucasian) women is influenced by the biology of the tumor. Gene methylation changes caused
 by environmental factors starting at birth is one mechanism through which genetic and
 non-genetic factors could affect development of breast cancer and which could underlie
 disparities in aggressiveness. The investigators were the first to show that a panel of genes
 was hypermethylated specifically in AA-ER-negative tumors in young women in comparison to
 EA-tumors in women of the same age. Gene promoter methylation is found at low levels in
 healthy breast tissues from women without cancer. Race and family history of cancer increase
 the likelihood of these early events. Thus, epigenetic changes may be early events in
 transformation of breast cells and tumor formation.

 This study will enroll women from different ethnic backgrounds undergoing mastectomy in order
 to collect normal and tumor tissue to study these genetic changes and breast cancer risk.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Women

 -  18 years and older

 -  Histologically proven infiltrating carcinoma of the breast on diagnostic biopsy. NOTE:
 Individuals planning bilateral mastectomy procedures (for either bilateral cancers or
 contralateral prophylactic procedures) either at the same time or in the future will
 be asked to have tissue removed for the study from both breasts.

 -  ER-negative, any PR status, and any HER2 status (i.e., ER-, PR any, HER2- or ER-, PR
 any, HER2+; "triple positive" breast cancers are not eligible).

 -  Unresected, untreated breast cancer planning surgical management with mastectomy (with
 or without axillary nodal evaluation/dissection and/or with any other clinical
 assessment).

 -  Willing and able to sign an informed consent form

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  None.