While there’s no crystal ball that can definitively predict if a woman will develop breast or ovarian cancer, genetic researchers have uncovered more clues that can help doctors and their patients better understand risks. In fact, mutations in two particular genes can serve as a marker to help identify those who may need to be monitored a bit more closely for these diseases.
The latest research into the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes was published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Researchers used data from the Consortium of Investigators of Modifiers of BRCA to gain their insights. A total of 19,581 women with BRCA1 mutations and 11,900 women with BRCA2 mutations were included in the study. Researchers took into account a variety of different types of mutations found in these genes to gauge their connection between the development of breast and ovarian cancer.
The results are eye-opening. Among study participants with BRCA1 mutations:
• 2,317, or 12 percent, developed ovarian cancer
• 1,041, or 5 percent, developed both breast and ovarian cancer
Among women with BRCA2 mutations:
• 682, or 6 percent, developed ovarian cancer
• 272, or 2 percent, developed both breast and ovarian cancer
While more research is needed to better understand the connection between mutations in these two genes and the development of ovarian and breast cancers, current studies are showing that these two markers can help identify those at higher risk for development. Genetic testing isn’t quite a crystal ball that can predict the future with absolute certainty, but it can help women better understand their risks and assist with better monitoring that may help lead to earlier detection and intervention.
Women who are concerns about their risks of breast or ovarian cancer should speak directly with their healthcare provider for more information about risk assessments, including genetic testing.
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