Health News

The Genetics of Menopause
Women who have mutations in the BRCA genes are at higher risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Research has suggested that women with these altered genes may also have problems conceiving children and that they go through menopause earlier than women without the defective genes.
The Pill and Cancer Risks
Women who carry mutations in the BRCA genes have higher risks for both breast and ovarian cancer. One way to reduce these risks is to have both their ovaries and breasts surgically removed. A new analysis looked at another possible way — birth control pills.
Telling Your Kids About Your Cancer Risk
Let's say breast cancer runs in your family. So you decide to have genetic testing to learn your risks. The results of your test will affect your children. Would you tell your children the results or not? 
Other Cancers After Breast Cancer?
Even after a cancer is successfully treated, there's still a risk that another cancer may show up at some point down the line. A recent Spanish study looked at the risk of second cancers in breast cancer survivors.
What to Know About Angelina's Decision
Mega-star Angelina Jolie announced in a New York Times op-ed that she had both breasts removed. She does not have breast cancer. Ms. Jolie has done this to reduce her risks of developing both breast and ovarian cancer.
A Better, Faster, Cancer Genetic Test?
A major risk factor for breast cancer is carrying a harmful mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Finding out whether or not a BRCA gene alteration is harmful hasn’t been all that easy, though. That could be changing.
Is Breast Cancer Linked To Ovarian Cancer?
New research into the genetic make-up of breast cancer has confirmed some things about the disease and offered intriguing new insights – and opportunities. This knowledge could well lead to new drug therapies.
Predicting Chemo Response
One of the mysteries of cancer is its unpredictability. Sometimes chemotherapies  work, and sometimes they don't. Recent research may help physicians personalize treatment for individual patients.
Do Contraceptives Increase Your Cancer Risks?
You're taking the pill, or maybe you've tried one of the injectable contraceptives. Now you hear something about an association between birth control and cancer and you start to freak. No need to.
Risks of a Life-Saving Surgery for Women
Women at risk of ovarian cancer are sometimes encouraged to get their ovaries removed. While ovary removal surgery can save a woman's life, it also may raise the risk of other health problems.