Genetics and breast cancer

Abstract

It is known that breast cancer, as most other types of cancer, is part of a group of multifactorial diseases in which multiple etiologic factors - genetic and environmental - interact in various ways that are not entirely understood. The main genetic factor involved in carcinogenesis is the alteration of tumor suppressor genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, and p53). Even if the number of patients presenting hereditary predisposition to cancer is small, there is a potential either for early detection or for therapy that justifies the investment in this area of medicine. The identification of families and a careful screening for known genetic mutations should allow for genetic counseling of affected individuals and definition of adequate screening tests. Tests used for detection of mutations in susceptibility genes carry various medical, social, and ethical implications. The decision of whether or not to carry out a genetic test should contemplate the preparation of all individuals involved (patient, family, medical staff) for all consequences of positive, negative, or even inconclusive results.