Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre is to host a seminar tonight on how certain cancers could be hereditary.

The seminar is free, and open to all members of the public. It will include an update on a study launched two years ago — Bermuda's Genetic Link to Breast Cancer.

Massachusetts General Hospital surgical director Kevin Hughes will present his findings.

The study's aim was to identify Bermudian women genetically predisposed to developing breast or ovarian cancer at an early age.

It hopes to identify the risks of developing hereditary cancers and how to take steps towards early detection. The event is sponsored by Bermuda CableVision.

The seminar will be held 6.30 p.m. tonight at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute. Refreshments will be served from 5.30 p.m. For more information, visit the Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre website: www.chc.bm

Cablevision is to place collection boxes in its offices in aid of Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre. Donations will go towards diagnostic equipment and support systems in celebration of the 25th year of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

CableVision General manager Terry Roberson said: "It's very important for our company to support an event such as this.

"Almost everyone on this Island has seen the serious effects of not finding cancer in the early stages and we are proud to be working with Bermuda Cancer and Health Centre to help bring this important information to the Bermuda public.

"Genetic testing is a critical new tool in the fight against breast cancer, and this study will hopefully bring many closer to early detection and prevention."