Breast cancer is the most common cancer form occurring among females in the US. The average risk for a woman developing the condition in her lifetime is 13%. Although several factors can increase your risk for the condition, 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to hereditary ones, resulting from gene mutations (changes) passed on from a parent to a child.
If one of your family members has breast cancer, possibly you or someone in your family may develop it. It is essential to learn more about the role of genetics in breast cancer and how breast cancer care (diagnosis and treatment) varies accordingly.
1. Genetics Has Changed the Way Doctors Approach Breast Cancer
The link between breast cancer and genetics has made surgeons watch out for the signs of hereditary breast cancer, including:
It is good to speak with high-risk breast specialists when a genetic screening shows a mutation because they can share essential information or action plans, helping women make the right treatment decisions.
Genetic counseling must be done right after an initial surgical consultation because undergoing a bilateral mastectomy or breast conservation (lumpectomy) may depend on genetic testing results. It is also essential to identify high-risk patients earlier to begin the treatment on time.
2. When to See a Doctor
Even if you don’t have a family history of breast cancer, you should schedule a visit with your doctor if you have:
3. Cancer Risk Levels
The following table gives us the breast cancer risk levels that may be associated with a gene mutation:
| Risk Type | Lifetime Cancer Risk Percentage |
| High | Above 50% |
| Moderate to high | 25% to 50% or more |
| Moderate | 25% to 50% |
| Uncertain | Adequate research evidence isn’t available to connect the mutation with breast cancer but linked to a higher risk of ovarian and other cancers. |
4. Genetic Screening Results May Affect Treatment Decisions
Generally, patients with a sign of hereditary breast cancer have a BRCA gene mutation that contributes to a 60-80% lifetime risk for developing the condition. Doctors recommend a bilateral mastectomy for such patients, despite having other options, such as increased surveillance.
Though there are ten breast cancer genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most common ones. Mutated versions of BRCA1 and BRCA2 can encourage abnormal cell growth that results in cancer. The gene type impacts the type of cancer to watch out for.
After BRCA1 and BRCA2, the PTEN is the most commonly associated cancer gene. It's related to breast cancer, thyroid cancer, colon cancer, and uterine cancer. Similarly, the CDH1 gene causes lobular breast cancer, and the NF1 gene is linked to skin changes and breast cancer.
If you have any of these genetic syndromes, your doctor will discuss with the geneticist to create a personalized treatment plan for you.
After a positive genetic screening, visit your doctor to discuss the various treatment options, including reconstructive procedures, prophylactic surgery, and alternatives, such as increased surveillance. They also help you choose the best one that matches your needs and cures your condition.
If you are experiencing breast cancer symptoms or have any related questions, contact us at Chesapeake Oncology Hematology Associates. Our team has over 25 years of experience in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
