Genetic breast cancer occurs due to mutations in the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes, resulting in an inability to prevent the development of breast cancer. About 10% to 15% of breast cancers are hereditary cancers, known as hereditary breast cancer. This genetic mutation is passed on to future generations. A person carrying the cancer gene has a 50% chance of passing the cancer to their children. This leads to the development of cancer.
Contents
- How Can Genetic Breast Cancer Be Prevented?
- What are BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 Genetic Tests?
- How Does Breast Cancer Develop Genetically?
- Who Should Get Genetic Testing?
- What Are the Symptoms of Genetic Breast Cancer?
- What Happens If the Breast Cancer Genetic Test is Positive?
- What Happens If the Breast Cancer Genetic Test is Negative?
How Can Genetic Breast Cancer Be Prevented?
Genetic breast cancer individuals need to undergo testing. People at risk of having mutations in the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes should undergo genetic testing. This allows the potential transfer of cancer to future generations to be predicted. If a genetic mutation is detected, treatment will begin after identifying the specific mutation.
What are BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 Genetic Tests?
BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genetic tests are considered the most important tests to measure an individual’s genetic susceptibility to breast cancer. The BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes are responsible for determining genetic susceptibility to breast cancer. Therefore, these tests help determine genetic vulnerability. These genes produce tumor suppressor proteins. Tumor suppressor proteins play a crucial role in repairing damaged DNA. Since they contribute to DNA repair, they maintain the stability of the cell's hereditary materials.
How Does Breast Cancer Develop Genetically?
Genetic breast cancer develops due to genetic changes. Any gene might undergo a mutation. If the genes are altered, they may fail to produce the correct proteins or function properly. In this case, DNA damage cannot be fully repaired, leading to the development of breast cancer.
Who Should Get Genetic Testing?
Genetic tests should definitely be performed if a family member has had cancer. Since the likelihood of genetic transmission is high, it is important for future generations. Individuals who should undergo genetic testing include:
- If a family member was diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age
- If there is breast cancer on both sides of the family
- If there is both breast and ovarian cancer in the same family
- If a male family member has had breast cancer
What Are the Symptoms of Genetic Breast Cancer?
Genetic breast cancer symptoms are the same as those of non-genetic breast cancer. These symptoms include:
- A lump detected during self-examination of the breast
- Discharge from the nipple
- A swelling noticed in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in the appearance of the nipple compared to the normal breast
If any of these symptoms occur, you may have breast cancer. It is essential to visit a doctor immediately if any of these symptoms are observed.
What Happens If the Breast Cancer Genetic Test is Positive?
If the breast cancer genetic test is positive, it indicates that the person carries the gene mutation that causes breast cancer. Early diagnosis is crucial to minimize the individual's risk of cancer. The likelihood of finding the same gene mutation in family members is quite high. This situation should be monitored.
What Happens If the Breast Cancer Genetic Test is Negative?
If the breast cancer genetic test is negative, it means that the known genetic mutations related to the disease are not present. However, even if the test is negative, there may still be a history of breast cancer in the family. This indicates that the disease is not genetically inherited. Additionally, it does not mean that the individual will never develop cancer. However, the genetic risk is not present. The risk of cancer is similar to that in the general population. A negative result from the genetic test means the absence of a genetic mutation, but if the individual shows symptoms of breast cancer, they should not ignore them just because the test was negative. Environmental factors or unknown causes could also lead to breast cancer.
