The EMBRACA clinical trial is studying the safety and efficacy of an investigational drug, talazoparib, as a potential treatment for patients with advanced breast cancer who carry a BRCA mutation. BRCA mutations account for more than 50% of hereditary breast cancers, and up to 65% of women who genetically inherit a deleterious BRCA mutation will develop breast cancer by the age of 70. Understanding the genetic basis for certain types of breast cancer, such as being positive for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation, can be helpful. 

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Hispanic women and the continued leading cause of cancer death. It is currently enrolling Latina women in the Dallas area, particularly of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent, due to higher prevalence of a BRCA mutation. BRCA gene mutations may be hereditary and their presence indicates a higher risk of developing breast cancer, among other types of cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are human genes that are involved in DNA repair. When either of these genes are altered, DNA repair may not occur correctly, making tumors more likely to appear. 

All trial-related medication and care, including genetic testing for BRCA mutations, are provided at no cost. For a full list of participating locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and for information on enrollment and eligibility visit www.embracastudy.com.