Risk factors for breast cancer can be
easily identified. These factors are used to define Hisk
Risk Patients for Breast Cancer.
New genetic markers
studies have shed some light on the genetic
predisposition for breast cancer over the past few
years. Genetic integrity for the genes BRAC 1 and 2
have a definite impact in the development of breast
cancer. The overall picture is however very complex
and may involve additional genes or factors not yet
identified.
Women who have
inherited a mutation in a breast cancer
susceptibility gene as defined as BRAC 1 and BRAC 2
were found to have in early studies/analysis an 85 %
of developing breast cancer along with a significant
risk of developing ovarian cancer. Later studies are
confirming there is a definite increased risk.
However, this risk is now found to be much lower and
in the 55 - 56% range for breast cancer before they
reach age 70 and in 15 -16% range for ovariam breast
cancer. Other studies are now postulating this risk
may be even lower.
The problems with
identifying these mutations is to not have specific
guidelines for these patients and how to councel
them. In addition, common routine screening of BRAC 1
and 2 mutations for the general population or for
patients with a family history of breast cancer is
wasteful and not recommended (in patients with a
family history of breast cancer, it will be negative
9 out of 10 times).
See Chapter:
Genetic Screening for Breast Cancer
