Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Family history is known to be among the significant risk factors for developing breast cancer, and it is estimated that about 5-10% of all breast cancer cases have a hereditary component.

Hereditary breast cancer is caused by inherited changes in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which are tumor suppressor genes. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of hereditary breast cancer.

What is Hereditary Breast Cancer?

Hereditary breast cancer is caused by inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes are responsible for producing tumor suppressor proteins that help prevent the growth of cancerous cells.

Mutations in these genes can lead to an increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers.

How Hereditary Breast Cancer is Inherited

Hereditary breast cancer is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, which means that a mutation in only one copy of a gene is sufficient to cause the disease.

When one parent carries a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, there is a 50% chance that the mutation will be passed on to their child.

Who is at Risk of Developing Hereditary Breast Cancer?

Anyone can carry a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, but some people are at a higher risk than others.

Women who have a family history of breast and ovarian cancer, particularly if the cancers were diagnosed at a young age, are more likely to carry a mutation in one of these genes. Men with a family history of breast cancer are also at increased risk.

Signs and Symptoms of Hereditary Breast Cancer

The signs and symptoms of hereditary breast cancer are similar to those of non-hereditary breast cancer. They include:.

A lump in the breast or armpit
Swelling or thickening of breast tissue
Nipple discharge
Change in breast shape or size

Diagnosis of Hereditary Breast Cancer

To diagnose hereditary breast cancer, your doctor may recommend genetic testing to look for mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Genetic testing is usually recommended if there is a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

If a mutation is found, additional screening tests such as mammograms and breast MRIs may be recommended.

Treatment of Hereditary Breast Cancer

The treatment of hereditary breast cancer is similar to that of non-hereditary breast cancer. It may include surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy depending on the stage and type of the cancer.

In some cases, prophylactic surgery such as a double mastectomy or removal of the ovaries may be recommended to reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Prevention of Hereditary Breast Cancer

There are several steps that people with a family history of hereditary breast cancer can take to reduce their risk of developing the disease. These include:.

Regular screening tests such as mammograms and breast MRIs
Prophylactic surgery to remove the breasts or ovaries
Increased surveillance for other cancers such as ovarian cancer
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption

Conclusion

Hereditary breast cancer is a significant risk for people with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer.

Genetic testing can help identify individuals who carry a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene and are at increased risk of developing the disease. Preventive measures such as regular screening, prophylactic surgery, and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing hereditary breast cancer.