BRCA Basics: Genetics, Risks and Risk Management (with Updates)

This session, led by Dr. Rona Cheifetz, a surgical oncologist with BC Cancer’s High Risk Clinic, provided a comprehensive overview of BRCA mutations and what they mean for health.

The session covered the fundamentals of BRCA genetics, including how these mutations are inherited and how they increase the risk of certain cancers. Dr. Cheifetz discussed strategies for managing these risks, including surveillance and preventive surgeries, according to current clinical guidelines and offerings from the BC Cancer Hereditary Cancer Program.

Additionally, Dr. Janice Kwon, a leading gynecologic oncologist, presented updates on the SOROCk study, a groundbreaking research project focused on risk-reducing strategies for women with BRCA mutations. This study explored alternative ways to lower ovarian cancer risk while delaying ovary removal and early menopause, providing new options for BRCA carriers in British Columbia.

You can find the recording here