Identification of Men with a Genetic Predisposition to Prostate Cancer: Targeted Screening in BRCA 1 / 2 Mutation Carriers and Controls: the IMPACT study
We would like to introduce an international screening study aimed at men with a high risk of developing prostate cancer. Population studies show that the risk of prostate cancer may be influenced by heritable factors. Mutations in BRCA genes are known to be causative in breast and ovarian cancer and may also increase the relative risk of prostate cancer by up to 23 times.
As prostate cancer is an indolent disease in much of the general population, screening for it is controversial, with no established reduction in mortality. We aim to establish whether male BRCA mutation carriers have a higher incidence, are at risk of more aggressive prostate cancer and if a targeted screening programme is beneficial.
Samples will be taken yearly from 850 BRCA mutation carriers and compared to a control group over 5 years. This international collaboration will be the largest ever screening programme in men with these mutations. It will also enable us to determine the sensitivity and specificity of PSA screening, research into new disease markers and determine a biological profile of BRCA mutation carriers using proteomics and DNA/ RNA microarrays.
Our current accrual rate is 100%. Complete recruitment of the UK cohort is anticipated by the end of the year. Baseline PSAs, prevalence of undiagnosed prostate cancer, and the age of onset in male BRCA mutation carriers will be compared to the control group. We would like to present our preliminary results.