Unique Penn Study Forges Links Between Human and Canine Cancer

From the recent issue of Penn Vet Extra, comes news of an innovative research project spearheaded by Penn vets which will investigate similarities between canine mammary tumors and breast cancer in women, using shelter dogs.

According to the report: "Mammary gland tumors are the most common tumors in intact female dogs and represent a common cause of disease and premature death in dogs around the world. The development of mammary tumors in dogs is dependent on exposure to ovarian hormones and the tumor risk can be significantly reduced by spaying at an early age. The risk for developing breast cancer in women is also associated with the cumulative exposure to bio-available estrogens, suggesting that similar hormone driven mechanisms might be linked with breast cancer development in both species.

Early spay/neuter programs are supported by AVMA and animal welfare organizations throughout the United States as a measure to prevent pet overpopulation. Despite vigorous spay and neuter campaigns, the majority of the dogs in shelters are sexually intact, and mammary tumors in older dogs are prevalent. Because of their life threatening illness, these dogs often are overlooked for adoption due to their shorter life expectancy and their need for costly veterinary care.

Terry, a seven year old dog from the Humane Society of Berks County, was the first of thirty dogs enrolled in the new study. She had surgery in early July to remove her cancerous tumors and will be followed by the Penn oncology team at no cost to Terry’s new family. Like Terry, dogs enrolled will be identified through Penn’s Shelter Animal Medicine Program and animal rescues in the area. These dogs need our care the most and we are here to help them live happy, healthy, and quality lives.

Watch a YouTube clip of Terry, the first patient participating in the canine mammary tumor program!"