Details on groundbreaking new research in genetic testing that makes it possible to predict with more accuracy the inherited predisposition to breast cancer will be the subject of a keynote address during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.The presentation, which is free and open to the public, will be held on Thursday, October 24 at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute at 6pm.The address by Dr Kevin Hughes, surgical director at the Avon Comprehensive Breast Evaluation Centre at Massachusetts General Hospital, will discuss in-depth the topic of ‘Hereditary Breast Cancer in Bermuda: New Insights, New Approaches’.A woman’s risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer is greatly increased if she inherits a harmful mutation in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Men with these mutations also have an increased risk of breast cancer.Dr Hughes will focus on the latest approaches to genetic testing, “in which 23 other genes are now evaluated in addition to BRCA1 and BRCA2”. In the event such mutations are detected via specialised tests, there are a number of options available to help a person manage their cancer risk.He will also answer questions from the audience about breast health in general.The presentation has been made possible by Bermuda CableVision in partnership with the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre.The talk will be preceded by free screenings and health information sessions starting at 5.15pm.CableVision general manager Terry Roberson said the company is proud to sponsor the centre’s “ongoing commitment to the critical public health issue of breast cancer”.“New breakthrough procedures will be presented which help to identify with greater accuracy than ever those individuals who are at risk,” he said.“Early detection is key, as it enables doctors to better prevent these cancers or to find them and intervene at an earlier, more treatable stage. We hope for a well-attended event and look forward to Dr Hughes’ presentation.”Anyone interested in attending the free presentation is urged to call 236-0949 to reserve a seat.For more information or to register online, visit www.chc.bm