DALLAS - Nov. 4, 2004 - UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas researchers are seeking patients for a three-year multi-center study of women at high risk for breast cancer.

Doctors will evaluate and monitor early cellular changes in the breast milk ducts - where more than 95 percent of breast cancers originate - using ductal lavage, a minimally-invasive procedure for collecting cells.

The objective of the Serial Evaluation of Ductal Epithelium is to define the relationship between early cellular changes in the breast through ductal lavage and long-term breast health. The goal of the study, which is taking place at 12 sites nationally, is to determine the significance of breast duct cell changes in gauging a high-risk woman's potential for developing breast cancer.

"At UT Southwestern, we are committed to providing women with the most advanced technology to manage their health," said Dr. David Euhus, associate professor of surgical oncology and principal investigator for the trial at UT Southwestern. "Our goal is to help determine if the analysis of a woman's breast duct cells can provide additional information about her near-term risk of developing breast cancer when she is already at an elevated lifetime risk for breast cancer."

About 100 participants are needed for the local trial. Individuals must be between 35 to 65 years old, have a family history of breast cancer or other known risk factors, and no personal history of breast cancer.

Those selected will undergo ductal lavage every six months for three years along with a clinical breast exam every six months and a mammogram every 12 months. Physicians at the UT Southwestern Center for Breast Care will monitor participants' breast health for an additional two years.

For more information about the ductal lavage clinical trial, contact Mary Lou Underwood of the Center for Breast Care at 214-648-1995.
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Media Contact: Scott Maier
214-648-3404
scott.maier@utsouthwestern.edu

For information about other clinical trials at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, visit http://www.utsouthwestern.edu/home/research/clinicaltrials/index.html

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