The e-BRAVE study: A prospective web-based cohort and biobank of women carriers of BRCA mutations

Background: Women carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations face a very high lifetime risk (penetrance) of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer. A sizeable proportion of carriers, however, does not develop cancer at all or develop it only late in life, thus suggesting a potential modulation of this risk. Epidemiological studies have suggested that other genetic (polymorphisms) and environmental factors (lifestyle) affect penetrance. However, data regarding these associations mainly come from retrospective case-control analyses and the results are likely to be distorted by bias. Aims: The e-BRAVE (Brca, ReseArch, Virtual, Education) study aims to create a web-based prospective cohort and biological bank of unaffected women carriers of BRCA1/2 mutations to investigate the role of polymorphisms and environmental factors, and their interaction, in the occurrence of primary BRCA-related cancers. Methods: An innovative digital platform (including a mobile App) will be used to empower the synergy between participants and researchers, supporting engagement with women, adherence to intervention plan, self-empowerment, flanked by activities tracking and monitoring. Results: Based on the incidence data in previous studies, we estimate to observe an overall incidence of ~3.7% year. Conclusion: The success of this study will ensure the definition of further predictive risk models and comprehensive recommendations aimed at improving management and health of BRCA women.