The Basser Center for BRCA is the first comprehensive center for the research, treatment, and prevention of BRCA-related cancers. These hereditary mutations affect both men and women and can be passed down from either parent. BRCA mutations can increase lifetime risk for cancers including breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate and melanoma. The Basser Center can help you learn more about hereditary cancer risk.
2020 Progress Report
We’re proud to share Our Unwavering Mission, the 2020 Basser Progress Report. Even with the considerable and heartbreaking hurdles of the global pandemic, Basser persisted and propelled scientific discovery, BRCA awareness, and access to genetic counseling and testing. This report highlights the research, statistics, and stories that guide us in our mission. We hope you find them as compelling as we do.
What's My Cancer Risk?
Genetic counseling
Learn about the genetic testing, the importance of knowing your family health history, BRCA-related cancer risks, and the genetic counseling process.
Managing and reducing your cancer risk
Find information on BRCA risk management and screening. Learn about surgical and medical options for decreasing hereditary cancer risk.
Insurance
Find commonly asked questions about the cost and coverage of genetic testing and cancer screenings, as well as the impact of genetic test results on health and life insurance.
Support and resources
Get your questions answered and find support for BRCA mutation carriers, individuals with hereditary cancer and their loved ones, as well as tips on communicating with family members about risks, care, and support.
Attend an Event
The Basser Center for BRCA hosts events throughout the year, including signature panels and programs, webinars led by leading researchers, and fundraising events.
Save the date for our upcoming virtual event:
- Annual Research Update Webinar with Dr. Susan Domchek on March 29, 2022
Creating Better Choices for Future Generations
Our team science approach seeks to find a cure for hereditary cancer by advancing the care for BRCA-related cancers.
The Basser Center for BRCA provides grant funding to investigators around the world working on innovative projects related to BRCA1 and BRCA2. The annual Basser Global Prize provides $100,000 in unrestricted support of the awardee's innovative BRCA1/2 related research efforts.
Summer Internship Program
The Basser Center has established a summer internship program in genetics for four underrepresented minority students. The goal of the program is to expand the pipeline of underrepresented minority candidates pursuing a career in genetic counseling, clinical genetics, and basic science. The application period is now closed. Please check back in early 2023.
Read more about our 2021 cohort here: Basser Center Launches Summer Internship Program to Increase Diversity in Medicine
For more information you can contact us at basserinfo@uphs.upenn.edu.
