Study Suggests Men Should Also Be Screened for the 'Breast Cancer Gene'
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According to a recent study published in the journal JAMA Oncology, men face risks of cancer from BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations that are most often associated with breast and ovarian cancers in women.
The study reviewed the most recent screening and treatment guidelines for men carrying an inherited damaging variant in two genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2. The review included updated recommendations for males with a family history of cancer and other risk factors that could help them, and their doctors understand cancer risks.
Men account for 50% of BRCA1/2 carriers and have an increased risk for prostate and other cancers; however, the current rate of testing for men is only one-tenth of the rate for women.
Because genes are inherited from generation to generation, there is a fifty percent chance that a male carrier of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation shares this mutated gene with their biological offspring. The earlier people are aware of the possibility of carrying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, the more their medical care can be personalised and tailored to their specific situation: a hallmark of the promise of personalised medicine.
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