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Study May Help Mastectomy Dilemma

Research identifies factors likely to imperil second breast

By Peter Fearon, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 27, 2009 10:22 AM CST

(Newser) – Researchers alarmed by a spike in potentially unnecessary double mastectomies have identified three risk factors that might help breast cancer patients make better decisions about whether to have a healthy breast removed, the Houston Chronicle reports. The research was motivated by an earlier study that revealed 80% of women who had preventive double mastectomies had little or no risk of cancer spreading to the other breast.

“Our goal is to help women make more informed decisions," said the new study’s lead author. Researchers believe women who may benefit from preventive mastectomies include patients who have more than one tumor in the same breast; whose tumors started in the milk-producing part of the breast; and who score high in a complex equation of risk factors for breast cancer.

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A doctor studies a mammogram. Scientists are seeking ways to identify women who would benefit from preventive mastectomies. (AP Photo/BBN Technologies)

"Good Morning America" anchor Robin Roberts went public with her battle with cancer. Scientists are seeking new ways to identify women who would benefit from preventive mastectomies. (AP Photo/William Regan)

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Our goal is to help women make more informed decisions about whether to have this aggressive and irreversible procedure.
- Dr. Kelly Hunt, professor of surgical oncology

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Study May Help Mastectomy Dilemma