Risk for inherited breast or ovarian cancer

IN South Africa, a woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is about one in 12 and her risk of developing ovarian cancer is one in 82. Many breast and ovarian cancers occur only once in a family, however some of these cancers run in families.
Genetic counsellors and clinicians can help to define a woman’s risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer by assessing the individual and family history, and can give information about how cancers are inherited, and what screening and testing is available.

Who should have genetic counseling
You may benefit from genetic counseling if you, or a close family member:

1. Have breast/ovarian cancer and also have two first or second degree relatives affected with breast/ovarian cancer;
2. Were diagnosed with breast cancer before 40 years of age;
3. Were diagnosed with ovarian cancer before 50 years of age;
4. Have breast or ovarian cancer with multiple primary cancers or bilateral disease (both breasts affected);
5. Are male and develop breast cancer at any age;
6. Have relatives with known mutations in their BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes;
7. Belong to a particular ethnic group that is at higher risk for breast/ovarian cancer because of common mutations.

What is genetic counseling
Genetic counseling can help you make well-informed decisions about your own health and the health of your family. In many cases families can be reassured that there is no particular risk or that the risk is much less than they feared.
Genetic counseling and testing can lead to targeted interventions that decrease the risk of breast or ovarian cancer in you and your family.
For more info contact the Lenasia Cancer Society (LCS) on 011-854-3230 or visit them at 196 Rose Ave, Lenasia.
Meanwhile, the LCS will host its annual general meeting on 30 May at 3pm at the centre’s offices.

source: Lenasia Indicator