BOSTON, Oct 19, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- Young women treated for cancer as children may have a greater chance of developing breast cancer, a Boston study found.

Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital in Boston found if the women had been treated by chest radiation; had cancer of the bones, muscles, or connective tissue; or had a family history of breast cancer they may have increased risk for breast cancer.

They could benefit most from screening and prevention techniques, says lead author Dr. Lisa Kenney.

"We've known for many years that childhood cancer survivors have higher rates of breast cancer than the general population," she said. "But, other than prior treatment with chest radiation, it hasn't been clear what factors increase survivors' risk for the disease."

"Clearly, girls treated with chest radiation are not the only survivors of childhood cancer who are at increased risk for breast cancer," Kenney added. "What we've learned from this study suggests that some survivors have a genetic tendency to developing breast cancer as young women."

The findings are published in the published in the Oct. 19 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.

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