Research Interests

Cancer Predisposition Gene Carriers - Testing, Epidemiology and Psychosocial studies

Psychosocial Studies of Predictive Genetic Testing

We have studied communication patterns in families at high risk of cancer due to a family history and have shown that these differ by gender. A focus group methodology has been conducted to research the issues surrounding the implementation of a BRCA1 genetic test at the time of diagnosis. This will inform on the impact of the integration of cancer genetics into mainstream care. Studies using qualitative methodology are now being extended into men who carry alterations in the cancer predisposition genes, BRCA1 and  BRCA2  in the IMPACT targeted prostate cancer screening study and the SNP genetic risk profiles in the targeted prostate screening study, PROFILE . These will inform how genetic profiling should be undertaken in the male population .

Investigators: RA Eeles, E Bancroft; A Ardern-Jones; in collaboration with M Watson, Psychological Medicine and Psychology Research Group; R Kenen, College of New Jersey, USA
External Funding: CR- UK, The Institute Haddow Fund.

An Epidemiological Study of the Interaction of Lifestyle Factors and Germline Mutation in the BRCA1/2 Genes (the EMBRACE study)

This study will obtain prospective estimates of cancer incidence in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers and determine lifestyle factors which may modify cancer risk within this population. Questionnaires are used to record lifestyle factors which will be analysed for an interaction with germline mutation status of BRCA1/2 carriers.

Investigators:RA Eeles, E Bancroft, E Page; in collaboration with D Easton, University of Cambridge
External Funding: CR-UK

A Serial Collection of Biological Samples from Individuals with Germline Mutations in the BRCA1/2 Genes

Serial samples are being collected of serum, plasma, lymphocytes, and urine annually from BRCA1/2 mutation carriers. Toenails are collected to measure heavy metals. A single sample is taken from non-carriers. These samples will be used to investigate new markers of risk, predictors of cancer and genetic and biological associations with risk and cancer development.

Investigators:RA Eeles, E Bancroft, E Page, E Killick, E Castro, S Shanley
External Funding: CR-UK, Annabel Evans Memorial Fund