Social Sciences Project Abstract
EXAMINATION OF A PURPORTED LINK BETWEEN ABORTION AND LATER DEVELOPMENT OF BREAST CANCER
Presenter:
Catherine Kim, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 West Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; ckim@imsa.edu
Mentor:
Senator Chris Lauzen, 52 West Downer Place, Aurora, IL 60506
Abstract:
The issue of a possible abortion/breast cancer link has arisen in the Illinois General Assembly as a potential matter for future legislation. Such legislation may stipulate that doctors inform patients of the possible increased risk of breast cancer after an induced abortion. However, there is much disagreement within the scientific and political community as to whether or not an abortion/breast cancer link actually exists. Some studies conducted to investigate a possible abortion/breast cancer link have shown an increased risk of approximately 10 to 40 percent. Yet, there is disagreement on whether or not the increased risk is legitimate or due to testing bias or error. Therefore, by researching the possible abortion/breast cancer link in medical literature and also through interviews with oncologists, the goal of this project is to better inform Illinois Senators and Representatives who may be required to make legislative decisions dealing with a possible abortion/breast cancer link.