A simple blood sample can detect genetic mutations that cause breast cancer.
In western society, every woman has approximately a 10% risk of developing breast cancer over the course of her life. In most cases, it is a non-hereditary disease. 5% of breast cancer patients, however, have a hereditary form of breast cancer, which can come from either the mother’s or the father’s side.
This hereditary form of breast cancer usually occurs at a younger age, more frequently presenting in both breasts at the same time, and is sometimes associated with ovarian cancer.
If multiple family members have been affected by breast and/or ovarian cancer, at any age, it may be advisable to look for an abnormality in the genetic material (gene mutation). The genetic mutations that are currently being screened for are the BRCA1, BRCA2 and CHEK2 mutations. This is done by taking a blood sample.
If a mutation is found, it is important to follow this up intensively and a number of preventive measures can be proposed.
Please contact your treating doctor for any questions regarding this. If appropriate, they can then refer you to a specialist Department of Human Genetics.
The Jan Yperman Hospital offers the possibility of a genetic consultation close to home via the monthly consultation with Prof. Dr. Koenraad Devriendt (UZ Leuven Department of Human Genetics) on Wednesday afternoons.
An appointment can be made via the breast clinic.
