By. Joanne Kotsopoulos, MD,
Date: 12/07/2023
At the SABCS 2023 conference, Joanne Kotsopoulos, MD, a researcher from the Women’s College Research Institute in Toronto, engaged in a discussion with Allen Wilbanks. The focus of their conversation was on the cancer risk associated with exogenous hormone use in women with inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, a topic Kotsopoulos has extensively researched.
In her presentation, Kotsopoulos provided an overview of the complex relationship between exogenous hormones, such as oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, and the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in mutation carriers. She delved into the existing evidence, including both established and preliminary findings, shedding light on the impact of tamoxifen as a chemo preventive agent. Despite the underpowered nature of studies due to low chemo prevention adoption, Kotsopoulos discussed a 40 percent reduction in breast cancer risk among tamoxifen users.
The discussion extended to the role of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, emphasizing the increased risk associated with progestin-containing hormones. Kotsopoulos highlighted the importance of considering alternative prevention options, given the complexities of the high-risk population, particularly those who have undergone preventive surgery or are dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis.
Wilbanks further explored the significance of understanding the influence of exogenous hormone use on the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in individuals with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Kotsopoulos elaborated on the importance of such insights in contributing to the broader understanding of risk factors, supporting preclinical evidence, and potentially guiding targeted prevention strategies.
Addressing the potential implications of her findings, Kotsopoulos acknowledged the challenge of translating scientific evidence into clinical decisions. She emphasized the need for personalized medicine, where clinicians and patients weigh the individual’s risk profile against the benefits of specific interventions. The conversation concluded with gratitude from Allen Wilbanks to Joanne Kotsopoulos for sharing her expertise and insights at the SABCS 2023 conference.