About This Project

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer deaths among Palestinian women. The research paper will define the genetic and hereditary make up in women with breast cancer in Gaza. Using the sequencing method Whole Exome Sequencing, women who may carrying hereditary mutations will be chosen for sequencing their genes. The research will affect future genetic testing which will be cheaper and more available for tens of breast cancer families in Gaza.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Breast cancer is the largest cause of cancer deaths among Palestinian women. Hereditary breast cancer can run in the family through several individuals who may have the same mutations in certain genes. This is the first time that such a project initiated in Gaza. It will sequence all genes in each women with hereditary breast cancer. In fact, it will look for common mutations that are common in women and their families in Gaza. The more donations we receive, the more data we can collect.

Breast Cancer in Gaza

What is the significance of this project?

The research will help women with breast cancer to define their genetic mutation of certain genes which will help doctors to better predict prognosis and treatment. The Whole Exome Sequencing method is very expensive; therefore, once mutations in each woman from targeted families is defined, those families, and Gaza women in general, can genetically test with other cheaper methods for the same mutated gene.

What are the goals of the project?

After having authentications from the health ministry, we will review records and history of families with hereditary breast cancer and make selection according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) criteria which define patients with hereditary breast cancer. Peripheral blood will be collected from women selected. As Whole Exome Sequencing is not available in Gaza, the tests will be sent to a neighboring region. Results will be published publicly for scientists, doctors and genetic counselors to use in their treatment for Gaza women with hereditary breast cancer.