Yes, some breast cancers occur as a result of inheriting genes that contain certain mutations. But, hereditary breast cancer accounts for only 5 to 10% of all breast cancer diagnoses. Some people already diagnosed with breast cancer should have genetic testing because the results of the testing can help your care team choose treatment options more likely to help you. Certain genetic mutation or syndromes in your family may increase your cancer risk:
- BRCA1 or BRCA2. Mutations of these genes are related to an increased risk for breast and ovarian cancer
- Li-Fraumeni Syndrome is caused by mutations in the TP53 gene
- Cowden Syndrome caused by mutations in the PTEN gene
- ATM, CHEK2, PALB2. Mutations in these genes are associated with a moderately increased risk for breast cancer
Should I have genetic screening?
You should consider talking to a genetic counselor if your family history includes one or more of the following:
- A diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer (cancer that is negative for the estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and HER2) before age 60
- Multiple people in the family with the same cancer or related cancers, such as breast and ovarian; or colon and uterine
- Two or more relatives (on the same side of the family) with the same cancer type, such as breast cancer or colorectal cancer, especially if they were diagnosed at younger ages
- A cancer diagnosis at an early age (younger than 50)
- More than one primary cancer in an individual (this means two or more separate cancers; rather than one that has spread to other locations)
- Occurrence of a rare cancer, such as ovarian cancer or male breast cancer
- Occurrence of a cancer in a person not exposed to a known risk factor, such as lung cancer in a nonsmoker
- A known cancer gene mutation in the family
Worried about your breast cancer risk?
Does breast cancer seem to run in your family? Have you had abnormal mammograms before? Roswell Park’s High Risk Breast Cancer Program can help. Our team of specialists will assess your personal risk for breast cancer, based on your family’s cancer history, your personal medical history, possible genetic mutations and more, and then provide you with a path forward for ongoing exams, surveillance, and preventive options.
Don’t live in fear of your breast cancer risk. Let us help you learn your personal breast cancer risk and what you can do about it — and leave the worry behind.
Genetic testing for breast cancer at Roswell Park
Our genetics team can help determine whether you should undergo genetic testing, explain what the results mean for you and your family, and help you manage your ongoing monitoring and prevention. Our Genetics team provides:
- Genetic counseling to help you understand your risk for cancer based on your personal and family history.
- Genetic testing for you and your family members if you wish.
- A path forward. We will help you manage your health, monitor for cancer and offer options that may prevent the disease.
To request an appointment for genetic evaluation, call 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355).