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According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Breast cancer occurs when cells mutate and become cancerous cells that multiply and form tumors in the breast. While the cause of each breast cancer diagnosis is unknown, we know many of the risk factors.
One risk factor is inheriting genes from a parent. The most common mutations are the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. While the majority of breast cancers are not inherited, 5-10% are heredity.
What is hereditary breast cancer?
Hereditary breast cancer is when you have inherited a damaged gene from a parent. When inheriting a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, your likelihood of developing breast cancer or other cancers can be as high as 80%, depending on the specific gene and your family history. That being said, just because breast cancer runs in your family does not mean that you'll develop breast cancer.
It's important to remember that while breast cancer is hereditary, not all types of breast cancer are hereditary. That's why it's crucial to test for the BRCA gene.
Who should consider testing for the BRCA gene?
Genetic testing for the BRCA gene is encouraged if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or if you have a family history of breast cancer. If you know someone in your family has the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene and feel that you may have inherited it, we suggest talking to your doctor about genetic testing.
If you've already been diagnosed with breast cancer, it's best to get tested to know whether you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. As a reminder, only 5-10% of breast cancers are hereditary. However, if you know you have the BRCA gene, your family may be eligible for early screening.
Luckily, getting genetic testing for these genes is fairly straightforward. A BRCA genetic test can use a blood, saliva, or cheek cell sample. Genetic testing can also offer you and your loved ones peace of mind.
What to do if you have the BRCA gene
If you know that BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes run in your family, you can manage your cancer risk. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing hereditary breast cancer.
- Frequent and early screenings: Your doctor may recommend getting MRIs or mammograms more frequently than is recommended for the general population.
- Surgery: In more extreme cases, one or both breasts (bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy) can be removed to prevent breast cancer. This is a big decision and should be discussed in-depth with your care team and loved ones.
- Medication: People can take medication to prevent breast cancer when their risk of breast cancer is higher due to inherited mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, or other genes.
While having a family history of breast cancer can increase one's risk, it's important to recognize that the majority of breast cancer cases occur in individuals without a direct familial link. Understanding the link between genetic and non-genetic factors can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Be sure to check out PatientsLikeMe for more information!