Breast cancer gene clue discovery
Five genetic clues to why some women have a family history of breast cancer have been identified by UK researchers. It brings to 18 the number of common genetic variations linked to a small increased risk of breast cancer.
The Cambridge University-led research, published in Nature Genetics, could see targeted screening and treatment of women more likely to get breast cancer. It is thought about one in 20 of all breast cancers are down to inherited faults in known genes.
Dr Douglas Easton of the University of Cambridge, lead author of the study, told the BBC: “We know for sure that these gene variations are associated with risk. It is not the whole picture but it will contribute ultimately to genetic profiling of risk. It also contributes to our understanding of why the disease develops and will lead to a better understanding of the biology of the disease.”
Women with a strong family history of breast cancer are already given early screening for signs of tumours. They are also entitled to genetic tests if they have a close relative with breast cancer. The 18 genetic changes linked to breast cancer are not currently tested for. They are thought to account for around 8% of inherited cases of breast cancer. Dr Helen George, head of science information at Cancer Research UK, said: “This research takes us a step closer to developing a powerful genetic test for the disease. Such a test could help doctors identify women who have an increased breast cancer risk so that they can make informed decisions about how to take steps to reduce their chance of developing the disease.”
Encouraging to read of new research, but I do wish they’d hurry up and find a cure!!!!
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What did you think of this, Marie? I was both encouraged and stymied. Encouraged by the fact that this was an important step forward. Stymied by the fact that this discovery still only relates to the 10% (or fewer) breast cancer cases that truly are genetic. That means we still have 90% that are not explained. But progress leads to more progress, but in my mind’s eye there’s a long road towards cures. Not one, but many.
Thanks for posting about this — a great topic.
jms
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Katie, I agree with you regarding the research and the fact that we must find a cure. My concern about Genetic testing is the fact that it is a test. As we all know that yes labs have standards however they are run by people who are human. What if the human makes a mistake and a woman makes a decision that is life altering based on incorrect information. Again the testing gives us an idea that something could go wrong however it doesn’t mean that something will go wrong. I still am of the belief that we all have potential cancer cells in our body and outside influences can trigger that from happening.
Maybe I am way off base on this one and would love to hear other’s opinions on this one.
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Marie,
I’m not sure what to make of this article. The clues are hard to discover, kind of like having a jigsaw puzzle with most of the pieces missing and a happy picture on the box. I just wish the medical community would make the BRCA test standard for all newly diagnosed breast cancer patients.
XOXOXOX,
Brenda
BreastCancerSisterhood.com
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Thanks to you all for such insightful comments. I was in a rush the day I posted this and so I just reported the news item, meaning to come back to it. Now I don’t need to 🙂 You all have made my points for me! I couldn’t have said it better myself regarding how achingly far we still seem to find ourselves from a cure, and Brenda, that is a terrific point you make about testing for BRCA from the get-go!
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