2018 Paint paper pink

Page 80 2018 Paint the Paper Pink Lincoln Daily News October 2018 mutations in BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes are also associated with other cancers (besides breast), women with these mutations can also consider early screening and preventive actions for other cancers. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes like the BRCA genes are considered “high penetrance” because they often lead to cancer. Although many women with high penetrance mutations develop cancer, most cases of cancer (including breast cancer) are not caused by this kind of mutation. More often, low-penetrance mutations or gene variations are a factor in cancer development. Each of these may have a small effect on cancer occurring in any one person, but the overall effect on the population can be large because the mutations are common, and people often have more than one at the same time. The genes involved can affect things like hormone levels, metabolism, or other things that impact risk factors for breast cancer. These genes may cause much of the risk of breast cancer that runs in families. Acquired gene changes Most DNA mutations related to breast cancer take place in breast cells during a woman’s life rather than having been inherited. These acquired mutations of oncogenes and/or tumor suppressor genes may result from other factors, like radiation or cancer-causing chemicals. But so far, the causes of most acquired mutations that could lead to breast cancer are still unknown. Most breast cancers have several acquired gene mutations. Tests to spot acquired gene changes may help doctors more accurately predict the outlook (prognosis) for some women with breast cancer. For example, tests can identify women whose breast cancer cells have too many copies of the HER2 oncogene. These cancers tend to grow and spread faster. There are drugs that target these cancer cell changes and improve outcomes for patients.