Gene Mutations Don't Add to the Risk of Blood Clots in Women Taking Tamoxifen

Behind the Cancer Headlines®

July 5, 2006

Two genetic mutations may not increase the risk of blood clots in women taking tamoxifen for breast cancer prevention, according to a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

High body mass index and tamoxifen use have been associated with an increased risk of blood clots. Neil Abramson, M.D., and colleagues at the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast/Bowel Project examined the FVL and PT20210 mutations and the risk of blood clotting in healthy women, half of whom took tamoxifen and the other half a placebo.

SOURCE:

Journal of the National Cancer Institute, July 5, 2006