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FAMILIAL BREAST CANCER BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene

Rarely, faulty (or mutated) genes can be inherited (passed from parent to child). Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are well-known to be linked to an increased breast cancer risk. However, there may be other genes, or certain combinations of genes, which may increase breast cancer risk when mutated.

Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are considered rare to very rare. About 1 in 400 to 1 in 800 people have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene . However, the frequency of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations is higher among certain ethnic groups. For example, in Australia about 2.5% of the Ashkenazi Jewish population carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes compared to less than 1% in the general population. The gene mutations can be passed on both the mother and father’s side of the family.

What can you do? Managing your breast cancer risk

• Being breast aware. Women of all ages are encouraged to be aware of how their breasts normally look and feel. If you notice any new or unusual changes, please contact your doctor without delay.

• Participating in breast cancer screening. Free routine mammographic screening is available in each state for women aged 50-74 through BreastScreen Australia. Women aged 40-49, or over 75, are also entitled to a free mammogram, however, they receive no reminder prompts, like women aged 50-74 do. Book online or contact BreastScreen Australia on 13 20 50.

• Young women are more likely to have dense breast which can impact the ability of a mammogram to detect tumours. As there is currently insufficient evidence that mammography is an effective nation wide breast cancer screening strategy for young women, routine breast screening for under 40s is not offered which is why early detection is vital

• If you have family history or you are concerned that you may have an increased risk of breast cancer, talk to your GP or local family cancer clinic,. Your doctor can help you assess your risk and refer you for additional genetic testing if required.

BREAST CANCER DETECTION AND AWARENESS

Understanding the risk factors for breast cancer and being breast aware is vital for the early detection of breast cancer in young women in particular. Earlier detection means more treatment options, a much higher chance of survival and an increased quality of life for women at all ages.

Symptoms of breast cancer may include:

• A lump or thickening in the breast, especially if it is only in one breast

• Changes to the shape or size of the breast

• Changes to the shape of the nipple, such as crusting, sores or ulcers, redness or inversion (a nipple that turns in when it used to point out).

• Changes to the skin of the breast, such as dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel), a rash, scaly appearance, unusual redness or other colour changes

• Fluid leaking or discharge from the nipple that occurs without squeezing

• Persistent, unusual pain that doesn’t go away

• Swelling or discomfort in the armpit

NORMAL BREAST CHANGES THROUGH LIFE

It is also important to note that the female breast will go through various normal changes over the course of a lifetime. Many of these changes are driven by hormones. They can be related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or the normal aging process. Most of these changes are not cancerous or harmful, but it’s important that a doctor checks them to make sure.

Normal breast changes throughout life include:

·         pregnancy

·         breastfeeding

·         hormonal changes over each menstrual cycle

·         weight loss or gain

·         ageing.

It is important to remember that most breast changes are not caused by cancer, and the symptoms listed can be caused by other medical conditions. However, if you have noticed any symptoms or changes in your breasts, it is important that you see your doctor without delay so that the changes can be checked. This may include a physical examination or imaging of your breasts.

Sources: https://nbcf.org.au/about-breast-cancer/detection-and-awareness/

https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/breast-health/normal-changes-in-your-breasts

Breast Cancer Statistics in Australia

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer amongst women in Australia. Approximately 57 Australians are diagnosed each and every day. That equates to over 20,000 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each year.

1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

About 1 in 500 men are diagnosed in their lifetime.

Around 1000 young women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, equivalent to about 3 young women each day.

In 2023, over 3,200 Australian will pass away from breast cancer (including 30-40 males). Approximately one woman under the age of 40 is expected to die each week from breast cancer.

That’s 9 Australians a day dying from the disease.

In the last 10 years, breast cancer diagnosis have increased by 21%.

Since the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) started funding in 1994, the?death rates from breast cancer in Australia have reduced by over 40% thanks in large part to research in prevention, early detection and new and improved breast cancer treatments.