SIR: In the UK, breast cancer affects one in every 12 women at some time in their lives. For those with a family history of the disease, their risk is likely to be at least double this.

One option open to those at high risk is to take part in a study called IBIS which is being run by the United Kingdom Co-ordinating Committee on Cancer Research.

IBIS (The International Breast Cancer Intervention Study) is testing whether the drug tamoxifen - the most successful drug ever used for treating breast cancer - could also prevent it. Astudy is now underway. The study is open to women aged 45-70 with a mother, sister or daughter who had breast cancer at the age of 50 or younger, or two close blood relatives who had the disease at any age. It is also open to women aged 35 to 44 who have an even stronger family history. Women who have certain other medical conditions such as a specific type of non-cancerous breast lump may also be eligible.

Like all drugs, it can have side effects, so anyone interested in taking part will be asked to think very carefully about the pros and cons. All participants will be seen every six months for checks and closely monitored for side effects.

If you would like to know more, please write to: The Study Co-ordinators, IBIS, PO Box 123, Lincoln's Inn Fields, London WC2A 3PX.

Clare O'Neill & Liz Pinney

Study Co-ordinators

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