Breast Cancer Identified Risks, Diagnostic, And Treatment Advancements Worth Knowing About

BRCA Gene Mutations

BRCA gene mutations are gene abnormalities detected by DNA analysis in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that express breast cancer susceptibility. This BRCA gene testing is reserved for individuals who, based on familial history, are likely to have inherited a mutation. However, this diagnostic test is helpful because up to ten percent of breast cancers and fifteen percent of ovarian cancers are attributed to BRCA gene mutations. Both men and women with specific BRCA gene mutations are at a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian (if applicable) cancers. Having the ability to test for such mutations provides individuals with the knowledge to take specific measures to increase the chances of early detection and reduce their risk of developing cancer. An increase in the frequency of breast cancer screening or surveillance involves having magnetic resonance imaging or MRIs and mammograms done yearly. For some individuals with a BRCA2 gene mutation, medication is available to lower the risk of developing breast cancer. Individuals who have a BRCA gene mutation also have the option of undergoing a preventative mastectomy to decrease the risk of developing breast cancer by ninety percent.

Learn more about advancements made in gene mutations associated with breast cancer now.

Other Discovered Genetic Mutations

Aside from the BRCA genes, mutations that occur in several other genes are associated with the risk of developing breast cancer. These mutations are rare in comparison to BRCA genes mutations. Genetic identification of any of the following mutations can help affected individuals take measures for the prevention and early detection of breast cancer. The presence of one mutated ATM gene can stop the cells from being able to mend damaged DNA, increasing the risk of developing breast cancer. Mutations present in the BARD1 gene or in the BRIP1 gene are responsible for DNA repair that can also make an individual more susceptible to breast and ovarian cancers. Mutations that occur in the CDH1, CHEK2, and MRE11A genes all increase an individual's risk of breast-related cancers. A mutation in the MSH6 gene puts a patient at double the risk of developing cancer compared to a nonaffected individual. Furthermore, mutations in NBN, PALB2, PMS2, PTEN, RAD50, RAD51C, STK11, and TP53 genes are also closely linked to the increased risk for breast cancer. In rare cases, individuals who have inherited two abnormal gene duplicates of BRCA2, MRE11A, PALB2, RAD51C, BRIP1, NBN, or RAD50 genes have a compounded risk of developing certain kinds of cancers, including breast cancer.