Question

Genetic cancer screens are routinely done today.

How can they benefit families and society? Analyze any limitations of the genetics cancer screens as well.

Being a carrier of the BRCA1 mutation does not mean that Katie will develop cancer, but she is at an increased risk compared to the general population.

Consider the two-hit hypothesis.

Describe any lifestyle changes she could make to reduce her risk of developing cancer?

Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the options that Katie has. Then decide which course of action you would recommend to her and when she should begin her preventative strategy.

Is BRCA1 breast cancer inherited?

Should Katie be concerned her children will develop breast cancer?

What ethical and privacy issues might the family face when deciding whether or not to have their child screened?

Answer 1

Genetic cancer screening Genetic test for gene mutation associated with hereditary cancer can provide important medical information for persons undergoing the testing. • It can help women diagnosed with breast cancer make surgical decisions such as whether to undergo lumpectomy and radiation or bilateral mastectomy It can help people diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer male decision about treatment with PARP inhibitors. It can help men diagnosed with prostate cancer make treatment decision. It can help people diagnosed with cancer qualify for clinical trials enrolling peoples with hereditary cancer. It can help family members who have not had cancer better understand their risk for cancer. BRCA1 is a human gene that produces tumor suppressor protein. These protein help repair damaged DNA. Specific inherited mutation of BRCA1 increases the risk of female breast cancer. About 12% of women in general population will develop breast cancer. A large number of study estimated that 72% of women who inherited a harmful BRCA1 mutation will develop breast cancer.

Lifestyle changes to prevent breast cancer Limit alcohol. Don't smoke. Control weight. Be physically active physical activity can helps to maintain a healthy weight, which prevent breast cancer. Breast feed the longer you breast feed greater the protective effect. Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. • A harmful BRCA1 mutation can be inherited from a person's mother. Each child of patient who carries a mutation in one of BRCA genes has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation. The effect of mutation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are seen even when a person's second copy of the gene is normal