What are breast cancer genes that are inherited?
– In September 1994, it was discovered that mutations in one of three genes, p53, BRCA1 and BRCA2, cause most (90%-95%) of hereditary cancer. By tracing cancer genes through a family or by detecting mutations in the genes, the cancer-causing gene can be identified. By 1996 all three were isolated, permitting direct testing for mutations in these genes. Do I have hereditary breast cancer in my family? – More than one case of breast cancer in the family indicates possible risk- especially in women under age 60. Ovarian or male breast cancer may also be signs that a family may have a hereditary predisposition to breast cancer. The risk can be evaluated through the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Program. If I have a hereditary breast cancer gene, will I get breast cancer? – If a woman inherits a mutant breast cancer gene she has an 85% risk of having breast cancer. In the case of the BRCA1 gene, she also has a 50% chance of ovarian cancer and, in the case of BRCA2, males with the gene have
