Does Treatment For Endometriosis Increase The Risk For Breast Cancer?

NEW YORK, Oct. 17, 2017 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- On October 28th, the Endometriosis Foundation of America (endofound.org) is bringing leading medical experts together to examine the relationship between endometriosis and breast and ovarian cancers.   "Breast, Ovary and Endometriosis" is a one-day conference explicitly focusing on the similar behavioral pattern between breast cancer and endometriosis, as they both exhibit uncontrolled, estrogen-dependent proliferation. 

"In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our conference will explore the relationship between endometriosis and estrogen at the molecular level and how it relates to an increased risk of both breast and ovarian cancers. Given the success in reducing mortality in breast cancer through early diagnosis and treatment, we hope to achieve similar success for endometriosis and ovarian cancer.  By removing the cloud of taboo and mystery about the disease, we can liberate millions of women to live full and meaningful lives including the possibility of having children," said EFA co-founder Tamer Seckin, MD.

Keynote speaker Serdar Bulun, MD., with Northwestern University and Northwestern Memorial Hospital said, "A greater number of ovulatory cycles in a woman significantly increases the risk of endometriosis, ovarian cancer or breast cancer. This strongly suggests a common link between these three key public health problems in the world." 

Bulun will address the dangerous liaisons between steroids and DNA in reproductive tissue.  Dr. Marisa Weiss, MD., founder of Breastcancer.org will discuss the environmental risks of breast cancer and their commonality with endometriosis.

"The breast is a favorite place for cancer to occur in women.  Only 10% of breast cancers are largely due to a single high-risk gene like BRCA1 or 2.  Most are due to a combination of lifestyle, reproductive factors, and environmental exposures," said Weiss.  "This presentation will focus on modifiable risk factors for breast cancer, including several factors that are also associated with endometriosis."

Additional topics slated for discussion include the role of sex hormones in treating endometriosis and their risks, breast cancer in young women, stem cells, fertility preservation, cancer implications for women with endometriosis, and estrogen receptors in both endometriosis and breast cancer.

Presenters joining Drs. Bulun, Seckin and Weiss include Dr. Lisa Halvorson, National Institutes of Health (NIH); Dr. Robert Taylor, Wake Forest School of Medicine;  Dr. Daniela Matei, Northwestern Medicine Feinberg School of Medicine; Drs. Stephanie Falcone Bernick, Karli Goldstein and Jeannine Ann Villella, Lenox Hill Hospital; Dr. Jennifer Knudtson, University of Texas Health & Science Center at San Antonio; Dr. Sarah Berga, Wake Forest Baptist Health; Dr. Michael Nimaroff, Northwell Health; Dr. le Ming Shih, Johns Hopkins Medicine; Dr. Kutluk Oktay, Yale University School of Medicine, Dr. Norbert Gleicher, Center for Human Reproduction; Dr. Monica Halem, New York Dermatologic Surgery Cosmetic Laser Center; and Dr. Harry Reich, best known for pioneering Total Laparoscopic Hysterectomy (TLH).

The conference is at the Lotte New York Palace in Manhattan from 8 am ? 5:30  pm.  Registration is required, and seating is limited. For more information or to register, visit endofound.org/medicalconference or call 646-854-3337.   

The Endometriosis Foundation of America (EFA) was founded by Tamer Seckin, MD, and Padma Lakshmi in 2009 and strives to increase disease recognition, provide advocacy, facilitate expert surgical training, and fund landmark endometriosis research. Engaged in a robust campaign to inform both the medical community and the public, the EFA places particular emphasis on the critical importance of early diagnosis and effective intervention while simultaneously providing education to the next generation of medical professionals and their patients.

BREAST, OVARY & ENDOMETRIOSIS

Where:  Lotte New York Palace. 455 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022

When:  Saturday, October 28, 2017, 8 am ? 5:30 pm

Details:

• Breakfast & lunch served.
• Registration required.  Limited seating.  For more information or to register visit endofound.org/medicalconference or call 646-854-3337.  

Media Contact: Jeanne Rebillard Rebillard, The Endometriosis Foundation Of America, 845.518.4636, [email protected]

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SOURCE Endometriosis Foundation of America