Breast cancer is a type of cancer that affects the breast tissue. The cause of breast cancer is not fully understood. However, it is known that breast cancer can be inherited from parents through certain genes.

There are a lot of myths surrounding the heredity of breast cancer. In this article, we will discuss the facts and fiction about breast cancer heredity.

What is Breast Cancer Heredity?

Breast cancer heredity refers to the transmission of certain genes from parents that increase the risk of developing breast cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most commonly inherited genes that increase the risk of breast cancer.

These genes are involved in the repair and intervention of DNA mutations that cause breast cancer. Not everyone who inherits these genes will develop breast cancer, but the risk is increased.

Fact: Breast Cancer Heredity is not the Main Cause of Breast Cancer

Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 account for only a small percentage of breast cancer cases.

The majority of breast cancer cases are caused by non-hereditary factors, such as age, lifestyle, hormonal factors, and environmental factors.

Fact: Men can Inherit Breast Cancer Gene Mutations too

While breast cancer is much more common in women, men can develop it too. Men can also inherit gene mutations that increase their chances of developing breast cancer.

Fiction: If No One in your Family has Breast Cancer, you are not at Risk

Family history is just one of many factors that can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Even if no one in your family has had breast cancer, you may still be at risk.

Other risk factors include age, gender, exposure to estrogen, obesity, alcohol consumption, and radiation exposure.

Fact: Genetic Testing can Determine if you have Inherited gene Mutations that Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer

Genetic testing can detect inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other factors that increase your risk, you may want to consider genetic counseling and testing.

Fiction: If you Inherited Gene Mutations that Increase your Risk of Breast Cancer, you will Definitely get Breast Cancer

Not everyone who inherits gene mutations that increase their risk of breast cancer will develop breast cancer. However, the risk is increased.

It is important to adopt healthy lifestyle habits and undergo regular breast cancer screening if you have inherited gene mutations that increase your risk of breast cancer.

Fact: Breast Cancer Screening is Important for Women at High Risk of Breast Cancer

Women at high risk of breast cancer, including those who have inherited gene mutations, should undergo regular breast cancer screening. This may include mammography, MRI, and clinical breast exams.

Fiction: Mastectomy is the only Option for Women at High Risk of Breast Cancer

Mastectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the breast tissue. This may be an option for women at high risk of breast cancer, but it is not the only option.

Some women may choose to undergo regular breast cancer screening or take medication that reduces the risk of breast cancer.

Fact: Breastfeeding can Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer

Breastfeeding may reduce the risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding can reduce the amount of estrogen in the body, which is a risk factor for breast cancer. Women who breastfeed for a longer time may have a lower risk of developing breast cancer.

Fiction: There is nothing you can do to Lower your Risk of Breast Cancer if you have Inherited Gene Mutations

There are things you can do to lower your risk of breast cancer, even if you have inherited gene mutations.

These include adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking. Some medications can also reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk.

Conclusion

Breast cancer heredity is a complex issue. While the heredity of breast cancer is a risk factor, it is not the main cause of breast cancer. It is important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to the heredity of breast cancer.

Genetics testing can determine if you have inherited gene mutations that increase your risk of breast cancer. However, not everyone who inherits these mutations will develop breast cancer. There are things you can do to lower your risk of breast cancer, including adopting healthy lifestyle habits and undergoing regular breast cancer screening.