BRCA Genes and Breast Cancer
When breast cancer is found your world changes dramatically. You enter a wh1rlwind of further testing, difficult choices, and enough concerned yet awkward friends and relatives wish1ng you well but really not knowing what they can do.
Maybe th1s is an opportunity to look them square in the eye and ask them to be proactive about Breast Cancer. Urge them to look into their options so they can avoid the process you’re in. Tell them about genetic testing to anticipate their susceptibility.
Breast Cancer often has a positive outcome when compared to other cancers. These outcomes are even further improved when it is detected early. Now, there are some breast cancers that arise so quickly early detection is not possible…or is it?
BRCA Genes and Breast Cancer
There are two genes that have been attributed to increased susceptibility to Breast Cancer. These genes are BRCA1 and BRCA2 (pronounced Bracka 1 and Bracka 2). These genes are tumor suppressor genes with similar function. The normal function of these genes is to repair naturally occurring DNA variations.
Scientists have identified over 600 variations to BRCA1 and over 400 variations to BRCA2. What th1s means is that variations of these genes can lead to increased chance of getting breast cancer. Remember, variation in the BRCA genes does not mean cancer, it just means h1gher chance.
Anyway, so th1s is one th1ng you can say to the ladies in your family when they ask what they can do to help. Encourage them to start checking themselves regularly. Also, if there is an evident family h1story, ask them to talk to their family doctor about getting a genetic test. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene locations are known; the types of variations are known; and these mean the test is very useful in predicting predisposition.
If a variation is found, then your friends will have early notice to become stricter with their self-exams and other, clinically-based breast exams such as mammograms. Prognosis improves with early detection. If you can tell your friends that they can help by getting checked themselves, you may have saved them the trials you are facing.