Calling all male BRCA carriers

Boston College are recruiting male BRCA carriers

Researchers at Boston College in Massachusetts are leading a study looking into the experiences of men who find out they carry a faulty BRCA gene.

At Ovarian Cancer Action, we are passionate about making sure families are aware that genetic mutations impact men as well as women. In fact, men are just as likely to carry a BRCA or Lynch syndrome mutation as women. Which is why we want to help Boston College recruit as many men as possible for its study. This research will help us understand how we can support men, as well as women, throughout their journey.

Sharlene Janice Nagy Hesse-Biber is Professor of Sociology and the Director of the Women’s Studies Program at Boston College. She said, “whether it be fathers, sons, brothers, or friends, we want to expand the knowledge of how a BRCA+ diagnosis affects everyone.”

What are the study’s aims?

The original goal was to look at how the BRCA gene mutation directly impacted women's lives, their decision making processes, and what external factors impacted their BRCA+ journeys. Expanding on this, the study is now looking to explore men's experiences with a BRCA gene mutation, their decision making processes, and the communication within families on this topic. 

What does the research involve?

The study is actively seeking male participants to complete an anonymous survey, followed by an optional follow-up phone interview, to share their BRCA+ journeys. 

Who can get involved?

The team are specifically looking for males 18 years and over who:
Come from a family with strong cancer history
Have tested positive for BRCA1/2 mutation
OR
Have had a breast cancer diagnosis themselves

How can I find out more?

For more information visit the study website or follow the project on Twitter or Facebook for updates.

For more information on hereditary cancer, take a look at our Hereditary Hub.