This year marks the 30th anniversary of the discovery of the BRCA genes – a milestone that transformed cancer research and paved the way for advancements in hereditary cancer prevention and treatment. In celebration, on November 4 and 5, 2024, the Peter Gilgan Centre for Women’s Cancers at Women’s College Hospital (WCH) hosted a two-day hybrid event, From Discovery to Impact: Celebrating 30 years of BRCA1 and BRCA2!
The event, supported by AstraZeneca and Merck and with receptions hosted by the Women’s College Hospital Foundation, was a success with over 500 attendees in-person and online.
Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the work of Dr. Steven Narod, senior scientist at Women’s College Hospital Research and Innovation Institute, who was involved in the seminal discovery of BRCA1 and BRCA2. He worked collaboratively with pioneers in the field of cancer genetics including Drs. Gilbert Lenoir and Henry Lynch, where they visited families with significant family histories of cancer collecting data and samples for genetic testing.
Attendees also heard from WCH staff and scientists about the ongoing work of the Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit at WCH, while experts from further afield, including Drs. Tuya Pal, William Foulkes and Andrea Eisen shared their insights and expertise in research and the management of individuals at high-risk of developing hereditary cancers.
On Day 1, researchers and health professionals including physicians, genetic counsellors, and others specializing in the prevention, detection and treatment of hereditary cancers, gathered for an in-depth exploration of 30 years of research and innovation.
Topics included the management of breast and ovarian cancer risk, PARP inhibitors, pancreatic screening, prostate cancer risk and management, population genetic testing, and looking ahead with hereditary cancer research and treatment.
“Dr. Steven Narod developed the first longitudinal study of women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, known as the Risk Factor Study. Due to his leadership, ongoing dedication of the scientists in our group, research staff, our collaborators around the world, and most importantly the women who complete these questionnaires every two years, that we have been able to make significant contributions to our understanding of the management of women with a BRCA mutation,” says Joanne Kotsopoulos, PhD, scientist at Women’s College Hospital Research and Innovation Institute and a co-lead of the event. “Ultimately, this work has impacted evidence-based guidelines to not only prevent cancers from arising but also prevent deaths.”
“Currently, we have over 19,000 women from 63 centres across the globe who are enrolled in the Risk Factor Study and the numbers are increasing and we are starting to include women with mutations in other cancer predisposition genes,” adds Kelly Metcalfe, PhD, senior scientist at Women’s College Hospital Research and Innovation Institute and a co-lead of the event.
During the reception, attendees enjoyed refreshments and engaged in networking.
On Day 2, patients carrying a BRCA gene mutation, including many who are a part of the Risk Factor Study, their families and members of the public were warmly welcomed.
Attendees gained valuable insights into the latest research, covering topics such as cancer risks linked to a BRCA mutation, management of breast cancer and ovarian cancer risk, menopause after risk-reducing oophorectomy, fertility options, and genetic testing. Each presentation was followed by engaging discussions, offering the audience a meaningful opportunity to have their questions addressed by leading experts.
Kotsopoulos shares, “Looking ahead, we are expanding our efforts to now go beyond BRCA, and including other genes such as PALB2, ATM and CHEK2. We are committed to understanding modifiers of cancer risk and how to manage these high-risk individuals.”
A celebratory cake-cutting took place during the reception, honouring the achievements and symbolizing hope for future advancements.
“I’ve been a patient at Women’s College Hospital for over 20 years with a BRCA gene mutation and a history of breast cancer. I’m glad I attended the event to learn about the latest research and the ongoing work that’s being done to support patients like me.” – Participant from Day 2, BRCA 30 Years: Discovery to Impact
See more photos from the event below:
