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A breast cancer diagnosis is one of the most trying experiences a person can face. The physical and emotional toll of fighting this disease is indescribable.
While there are many factors that can contribute to the development of breast cancer, one important question often arises - is breast cancer genetic?
Cancer is an umbrella term for a group of diseases in which cells grow and spread abnormally.
Cell growth and division are tightly regulated in a healthy person. But mutations in certain genes can disrupt this regulation, letting cells multiply uncontrollably and potentially invade surrounding tissues.
Breast cancer originates in the breast tissues, which are made up of lobules that produce milk, ducts that carry milk to the nipple, and connective tissue.
The most common types of breast cancer are ductal carcinoma, which begins in the ducts, and lobular carcinoma, which starts in the lobules.
Breast cancer can be invasive, meaning it spreads into surrounding breast tissue, or non-invasive (in situ) if it remains within the ducts or lobules where it originated.
Genes are parts of DNA that lay down instructions for the body to make proteins that regulate cell functions.
We inherit two copies of each gene, one coming from each parent. Mutations in certain genes, such as proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, can lead to cancer by disrupting the normal checks and balances on cell growth and survival.
These mutations can be passed down from parent to child or picked up during one's lifetime because of mistakes in DNA replication or being exposed to chemicals that can cause cancer.
Only about 5-10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary.
The most well-known genes that can mutate and raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancer are BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Women who inherit a harmful mutation in either of these genes have up to a 7 in 10 chance of getting breast cancer by age 80.
Other genes associated with increased breast cancer risk include PALB2, TP53, and PTEN, among others.
In many cases, breast cancers result from DNA damage acquired over a person's lifetime that leads to mutations in breast cells.
Lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and obesity can increase the chances of acquiring such mutations. A woman's risk also increases with age, with most breast cancers diagnosed after age 50.
If a lump or other concerning change is found in the breast, several tests can help diagnose if it is breast cancer:
1. Mammogram: A low-dose x-ray exam of the breasts to look for abnormalities.
2. Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create an image of breast tissue. Identifies whether a lump is solid or filled with fluid.
3. MRI: Uses magnets and radio waves to take detailed pictures of the breast. May be used in women at high risk or to further evaluate a suspicious finding.
4. Biopsy: Removes a sample of breast cells or tissue to be examined under a microscope. A core needle biopsy using a hollow needle is the standard method.
If breast cancer is diagnosed, more tests are done to find out what stage the tumor is in and what its specific features are. This information helps with decisions about treatment.
While most breast cancers are not directly inherited, genes do matter in breast cancer development and risk.
Most breast cancers, though, are caused by changes in breast cells that happen over time because of a mix of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
If someone in your family has had breast cancer, especially a mother, sister, or other close relative, you should talk to your doctor about your risk. Some people may be told to get genetic testing.
Women of all ages can try to lower their risk of getting breast cancer and hope to catch it early by living a healthy lifestyle and getting regular screenings.
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