October 2014

Make October KNOW Its Breast Cancer Awareness Month

What You Need to Know about the Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes
By: Kelsey Sutherland
Halloween, football, falling leaves, and of course PINK. All of these words are symbols
for October. However, as women, we know October means so much more. Its National Breast
Cancer Awareness Month, an internationally supported health campaign dedicated to finding a
cure and increasing awareness of this extremely prevalent disease. At Susan G. Komen, we are
constantly fundraising to help breast cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones. Aside from
that, we are dedicated to constantly looking for ways to prevent breast cancer. This month, were
analyzing the harmful mutations found in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that greatly increase a
womens risk of developing breast cancer.
Science Behind the BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes
Family history is the third most reliable predictor of breast cancer. In 1990, hereditary
susceptibility to breast cancer was identified with mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
The BRCA1 gene is on chromosome 17 and the BRCA2 gene is on chromosome 13. Both genes
function to suppress cell growth, however when they are altered, DNA damage may not properly
repair. The mutated cells then develop further genetic alternations, which lead to cancer.
The Accelerated Risk Due to BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes
While these inherited genes are known to increase the risk of breast cancer, they are quite
rare. The mutations account for five to 10 percent of all breast cancers diagnosed in the United
States. However, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most common mutations; they can be inherited
from either parent and greatly accelerate the risk of developing breast, ovarian and prostate
cancer.
Women who have a BRCA1 genetic mutation have a 55 to 65 percent chance of
developing breast cancer by age 70, and women with a BRCA2 mutation have likelihood of 45
percent, according to The National Cancer Institute. The average American womans chance is
about 12 percent. A BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation can also increase the risk of a second primary
breast cancer; that is, a second nonrelated breast tumor usually in the opposite breast.
Early Detection
How can you find out if you have an inherited genetic mutation? Genetic testing is the
first step and uses a blood test to determine if individuals have inherited a genetic mutation.
Speaking with your health care provider about your familys health history is equally important;
especially someone in your family has had breast cancer. Understanding a patients extended
familys health history allows the provider to further analyze their health and anticipate certain
risks. Online tools such as My Family Health Portrait, (https://familyhistory.hhs.gov/fhhweb/home.action) can help you manage and chart your familys health history.

Surgery is the safest and most successful preventative measure. Early detection and
prediction of developing cancers have saved million of lives. This year, Angelina Jolie publicly
shared her decision to undergo a double mastectomy surgery after discovering she had the
BRCA1 gene mutation. Jolies mother passed away from breast cancer in 2007.
Early detection screenings are an available option as well. You should consult your health
care providers to determine the appropriate screening for you, how often you should be screened
and at what time in your life. Alternatively, drugs like Tamoxifen and Raloxifen have been
proven in medical trials to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Living a Healthy Life
In addition to taking these preventative measures, you should practice monthly self-breast
examinations. As women, its our responsibility to eat healthy, exercise regularly and get routine
checkups, including a yearly mammogram, usually after age 35. If you have discovered a genetic
mutation, you will most likely need earlier and more frequent mammograms. Spread the word
about early dedication and the inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations. Lets fight
cancer back this month and let everyone know October is National Breast Cancer Awareness
Month! Visit http://ww5.komen.org/ to learn more.