Women's College Research Institute is a world leader in understanding the genetics of breast and ovarian cancer and has also been the site of innovative work on women's experiences of cancer. Our researchers also study the connections between cancers and other illness, such as Dr. Lorraine Lipscombe's work on the possibility of higher breast cancer risk in early diabetes.

The Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit
In 1994 and 1995, Dr. Steven Narod was part of a team of researchers who discovered two genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, inherited in families with high rates of breast and ovarian cancer. Today, the Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit works with families who may carry these genes, offering genetic testing and advice, and collecting data about the experiences of these families to develop new options in the treatment and prevention of genetic cancers.

Survivorship
Survivorship is a rapidly evolving area of research at the Women's College Research Institute. The percentages of people surviving a cancer diagnosis are dramatically increasing - particularly amongst those diagnosed with breast cancer. However, once active treatment is complete there are few services available to help people cope with the physical and mental consequences of their illness, the after effects of treatment, or concerns around cancer recurrence. The Women's Cancer Survivorship Team will explore the after effects of cancer treatments and the interactions between cancer and other chronic conditions.