Of these, tamoxifen is the most plausible as it reduces substantially the incidence of a 'new' or second, contralateral breast cancer when used long term after treatment of primary breast cancer. It reduces, and may prevent, osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It was appropriate to test the hypothesis that tamoxifen could prevent primary breast cancer. First data from the pilot trial, which involved 2500 women, were released in March. Eligibility determined In the IBIS program at the initial assessment, breast cancer is excluded, then risk and eligibility is determined.
Genetic testing is done selectively.
Women may take hormone replacement therapy where indicated. The dose, type and duration of HRT is recorded. Recruitment relates directly to awareness, particularly amongst GPs, women and surgeons. This must include awareness of paternal relatives with breast cancer, and awareness of possible increased risk for patients' relatives when a woman with breast cancer is being seen. Enquiries are welcomed and can be directed to recruitment centres throughout Australia.