07801 717250
brcaunite@ucl.ac.uk
What is BRCA UNITE?
BRCA UNITE is a visionary new study into the early causes of cancer in women led by researchers and clinicians at University College London, and supported by women’s cancer charity, The Eve Appeal.
In BRCA UNITE we aim to understand the events and key triggers which lead to the development of both breast and ovarian cancer. We will then seek to neutralise those cancer-triggering factors by developing pioneering alternatives other than invasive risk-reducing surgery to prevent cancer.
The hope is that this study will not only benefit women with inherited risk, but that it will also shed a light on the reason why some women get cancer whilst others don’t.
What is involved?
During the study period which lasts throughout one menstrual cycle (usually 28 days), participants will provide a number of biosamples including: blood, saliva, cervical cells, faecal and urine samples. These will be analysed using cutting-edge molecular techniques to investigate whether there are alterations in the immune system, the hormone system, the bacteria in the gut of people with an inherited risk of cancer.
Although several of the samples will be collected and stored at home all of which can be stored discreetly and hygienically over the course of the study month, participants will need to attend the BRCA UNITE Research Clinic three specific times dependent on their menstrual cycle. Please note that travel reimbursements will be given.
A new strategy for prevention of women’s cancer
This study has the potential to revolutionise the lives of women with BRCA mutations and their children.
Moreover, it will enable us to better understand how cancer develops, which will likely benefit all women.
Support us in other ways
BRCA UNITE is funded by a prestigious European Research Council grant awarded by the European Commission to Professor Martin Widschwendter together with a team of frontline researchers across Europe.
Our research also receives vital support from The Eve Appeal, as well as generous funding from NIHR/CRN North Thames, and the UCLH/UCL Biomedical Research Centre.
Our shared goal is to create a new standard in preventing inherited female cancers.
However, this goal cannot be achieved without active participation and support from the people our research affects. That is why we asking you to join us as partners in this research. Together, we can help change the future for those at risk of developing both breast and ovarian cancer.
Please support our life saving research by making a donation to The Eve Appeal at www.eveappeal.org.uk/donate