Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetime.

While most cases of breast cancer occur in women over the age of 50, some women can develop the disease at a much younger age.

Early-onset breast cancer is defined as occurring before the age of 40. This type of breast cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 5-10% of all breast cancer cases. However, it can be particularly aggressive and difficult to treat.

Scientists have been studying the causes of early-onset breast cancer for many years in an effort to develop better treatments and preventative measures.

What Causes Early-Onset Breast Cancer?

While the exact cause of early-onset breast cancer is not yet fully understood, there are several risk factors that are known to increase a woman’s chances of developing the disease at a young age:.

1. Family History

Women with a family history of breast cancer are at higher risk of developing the disease, especially if the cancer occurred in a close relative like a sister or mother.

This risk is even higher if the breast cancer was diagnosed when the relative was young.

2. Genetic Mutations

Some women have inherited genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing breast cancer. The most well-known mutations are in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

These genes normally help to prevent cancer by encoding for proteins that suppress tumor growth. But when a mutation occurs in these genes, the proteins don’t function as they should, which can increase a woman’s risk of breast cancer, as well as other cancers like ovarian cancer.

3. Hormonal Factors

Exposure to high levels of estrogen and progesterone can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Women who start menstruating at a young age, have a late menopause, or have never been pregnant are at higher risk of developing early-onset breast cancer.

4. Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle factors have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, including smoking, drinking alcohol, and being overweight or obese. These factors may be particularly important in women who develop breast cancer at a young age.

The Role of the ATM Gene in Early-Onset Breast Cancer

While mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most well-known genetic mutations linked to breast cancer, there are other genes that may also play a role in the development of the disease. One such gene is the ATM gene.

The ATM gene is responsible for producing a protein that helps to repair damaged DNA. When a mutation occurs in the ATM gene, the protein doesn’t function as it should, which can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Studies have shown that mutations in the ATM gene are particularly common in women who develop early-onset breast cancer. In fact, up to 10% of all early-onset breast cancer cases are thought to be caused by mutations in the ATM gene.

Testing for ATM Gene Mutations

Genetic testing can be used to detect mutations in the ATM gene. This type of testing can be particularly useful for women who have a family history of breast cancer or who have been diagnosed with early-onset breast cancer.

If a mutation is found in the ATM gene, a woman may be advised to undergo regular breast cancer screening or to consider preventative measures like a prophylactic mastectomy.

Women with a family history of breast cancer may also be advised to undergo genetic testing to determine their risk of developing the disease.

Conclusion

Early-onset breast cancer is a rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that can be difficult to treat. While the exact causes of the disease are not fully understood, genetic mutations like those in the ATM gene have been linked to an increased risk.

Genetic testing can help identify women who are at higher risk of developing the disease, allowing for earlier intervention and preventative measures.