Breast health

The impact of hereditary factors in breast cancer development

News of a breast cancer diagnosis in the family circle warrants for understandable worry and concern on behalf of the patient and yourself, considering the genetic links of cancer.

Each one of us has a ‘recipe’ found in our DNA that holds all of the instructions to the functioning of our body. In simple terms, genes that interact with the environment determine our physical, personality and inheritance characteristics. Our genes do not always work perfectly, and sometimes mutations can happen that increase our risks of certain diseases, such as breast cancer. Hereditary factors – the traits that are passed down from our parents – are one of main risk factors in breast cancer development.1 More research than ever before focuses on finding the links between our genetic material and breast cancer, as discovering that connection could lead to a possible cure.

Having a family history of breast cancer

Your family’s history of breast cancer can also provide a lot of information on the hereditary risks you might have. Women with close blood relatives (sisters, mothers, daughters), who have been diagnosed with breast cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease. Research shows that if you have a first-degree female relative diagnosed with breast cancer, your risk is doubled.1 In cases where two first-degree relatives have been diagnosed, your risk is up to 3 times higher than average.1 Across all population groups, about one third of women with breast cancer have a positive family history of one or more first-degree relatives with the disease.3 When it comes to prevention and recognising early signs of breast cancer, knowledge of family history is crucial. If breast cancer runs in your family or a close relative has recently received a diagnosis, protect yourself by seeking a medical consultation with a medical professional.

Inheriting certain gene changes

Around 5-10% of all breast cancer cases are known to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from mutations passed on from our parents.2 These mutations, which increase the likelihood of hereditary development of breast cancer, can be found in various genes. The most established and significant specific gene changes that correlate with causing cancer are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. In normal cells, these genes help generate proteins that repair damaged DNA, whereas in mutated versions these genes can cause abnormal cell growth, which can lead to cancer. Studies show that on average a woman with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation has up to a 7 in 10 chance of getting breast cancer by the age of 80.2 Although these gene mutations are rare among the general population, knowing your potential genetic predisposition to breast cancer will help you understand your risks and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.

Preventive measures

Exposure to hereditary risks for breast cancer does not mean that all control over prevention is lost. Breast cancer development is a product of both genetic and environmental factors, which is why choosing to lead a healthy lifestyle guided by educated choices can significantly minimise the risks.

If you have hereditary factors that increase your risk of developing cancer, here are a few ways you can protect yourself:

Genetic testing. The first step to preventing hereditary risks for breast cancer is gaining awareness of your abnormal gene mutations. A specialist consultation and a genetic test can provide you with the necessary assessments for several mutations, including BRCA, ATM, BARD1, BRIP1, CDH1, CHEK2, NBN, among others. In cases of a family breast cancer diagnosis or personal concern about your risks, please consult your physician regarding possible tests and examinations.

More frequent screening. If hereditary gene mutations are found that place you at an increased risk of developing breast cancer, a strict adherence to frequent and regular testing is necessary. Tailored to your individual situation, your doctor may advise you to follow routine breast self-examinations, mammograms, or MRI.

Protective surgery. Some women with abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes choose to have protective surgery by either removing the healthy breast tissue. A very aggressive and irreversible risk-reduction option, prophylactic beast surgery has found to be 97% effective at reducing breast cancer development.2 Considering that it is a significant and personal decision, choosing prophylactic surgeries requires a great deal of thought, patience, and consultation with your doctors, genetic counselor, and family.

The genetic composition of our bodies is constantly changing, and there is no way of keeping up with all of the gene mutations that have, are or will happen eventually. At the same time, we do have control over our habits, decisions, especially in terms of adopting health-promoting behaviours. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and developing awareness through frequent breast screenings is fundamental to mitigating the hereditary risks. Hereditary predisposition does not equal a diagnosis when it comes to cancer.

In order to make these difficult decisions about your lifestyle choices, complete this short free test that will help You to better understand your personal breast cancer risk factors.

2020-11-24 22:58