What are BRCA (Breast Cancer) genes?
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These are proteins associated with breast tissues that played a big role in preventing breast cancer.
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They help repair damaged DNA or destroy cells if the damaged DNA cannot be repaired. Because of this, the BRCA genes are known as tumour suppressor or caretaker genes.
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However, in some people, these tumour suppression genes do not work properly. When a gene becomes altered or broken, it doesn’t function correctly. This is called a gene mutation. So, when BRCA itself undergoes a mutation, it loses the ability to repair DNA.
What are the risks associated with BRCA mutations?
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BRCA mutations are primarily associated with breast and ovarian cancer. However, in some cases, they are also linked with other cancers, especially in the abdominal and thoracic cavities.
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Women with abnormal BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 genes have up to 80 % risk of developing breast cancer by age 90. Women with BRCA 1 mutations have up to 55% risk of developing ovarian cancer. Also, affected women have a high risk of having pancreatic cancer.
What are the preventive strategies women should adapt to prevent BRCA mutations?
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Early screening: Women with a strong matrilineal family history of breast/ovarian cancers should get tested for BRCA mutations after consulting their gynaecologists.
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Regular check-ups for breast cancer: If BRCA mutation is tested positive for breast cancer, the following steps should be adopted.
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At 18yrs: Regular breast self-examination should start.
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From 25yrs: Clinical examination and risk assessment must be done every 6months-1year. Mammography should also be done on annual basis.
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From 30yrs: Woman with BRCA mutation must get an annual breast MRI.
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In SOS cases, Women should go for risk reduction through tamoxifen (not chemo, but oestrogen) or risk-reducing surgery (mastectomy).
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For ovarian cancer: Regular use of oral contraceptives should be adopted to avoid any risk.
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Till 30 yrs: Women should consider transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests on the basis of family history of the disease.
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Between 35-40 yrs: Women who have had children can choose risk reduction through salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of ovaries and the fallopian tube) on an SOS basis
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