cial needs:' she said.
For those concerned about
the ramifications of testing on
health insurance or employ-
ment matters, Zakalik cited the
2008 GINA (Genetic Information
Nondiscrimination Act), which
prohibits the use of genetic test
results to set insurance rates or
make employment decisions.
Another boon was a Supreme
Court decision in June that made
it illegal for companies to patent
naturally occurring genes, includ-
ing BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Many cancer prevention profes-
sionals are optimistic this will pave
the way for new and less expensive
genetic testing equipment and pro-
cedures, making this potentially
life-saving technology more widely
available.
"If testing is warranted, don't
be afraid:' Zakalik said. "Survival
rates for BRCA-related cancer are
the same [as for sporadic cancer],
and early detection and surveil-
lance can increase the odds."
Death Rates Lower
The good news is that the mortal-
ity rates have declined over the last
several years because of enhanced
education and awareness, increased
early detection and improved
treatment options that encompass
drugs, radiation and chemotherapy.
A New York Times article reported a
25 percent decline in breast cancer
mortality rates since 1990, with an
average five-year survival rate of 80
percent.
Zakalik also discussed possible
future developments, including
drugs that target certain enzymes
and help repair DNA pathways,
increased use of chemoprevention
and pre-genetic diagnosis (PGD),
which would allow embryos to be
screened prior to implantation.
Regarding the effects of lifestyle,
Zakalik said research has shown
a correlation between regular
exercise and reduced risk of breast
cancer.
"Diet and exercise are always
important:' she said. "There's a lot
we don't know yet:'
The Maimonides Society is a
national organization of health
care professionals whose goal is
to strengthen the bonds between
local medical and Jewish commu-
nities through philanthropy, edu-
cation and social activities.
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2300 Haggerty Road. Ste. 1190, West Bloomfield, MI 48323 248-624-9800
1851070
August 29 • 2013
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