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Knowing how to prevent hereditary breast cancer is important for those of you who have a family history of this disease. Because according to Cancer.org, around 5 to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to run in the family.
If you are someone who has a family history of breast cancer, let’s look at the following explanation.
Breast cancer that runs in the family
Many breast cancer patients have no family history of the disease. But those who have a family history of breast cancer appear to have a higher risk.
For example, those who have close relatives or first degree relatives such as mothers, sisters or daughters with breast cancer, have a higher risk of developing this disease.
This history is not only from female relatives, you know. Because men can also suffer from breast cancer. Thus, women whose fathers or brothers have had breast cancer also have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Overall, around 15 percent of women with breast cancer have family members with a history of this disease.
How to prevent hereditary breast cancer?
If you know you are at high risk of suffering from this disease, you definitely want to find out how to prevent hereditary breast cancer. However, unfortunately there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer.
But you can do several things to reduce the risk. These methods include:
Genetic counseling and risk testing
Although there is no way to prevent hereditary breast cancer, you can reduce your risk with genetic testing.
The doctor will look for changes in genes inherited from the family. Two genes that are considered important in breast cancer are called the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
If you are a woman with a family history of breast cancer and have BRCA gene changes, this is a sign that you have a very high risk.
In addition, women with BRCA gene changes also have an increased risk of ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer and several other types of cancer.
Meanwhile, if you are a man with a family history of breast cancer and have BRCA gene changes, you are also at risk of developing breast cancer. Although this risk is lower in men, compared to women.
In addition, men with BRCA gene changes are also at risk of developing prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer and several other types of cancer.
Apart from the BRCA gene, mutations in other genes called PALB2, CHEK2, ATM, PTEN and TP53 also increase the risk of breast cancer. To understand this gene mutation, you can immediately consult a doctor.
Intensive observation to look for early signs of breast cancer
If you are at high risk of developing breast cancer, carry out strict observations such as:
- Regular visits to the doctor for breast examinations and ongoing risk assessment
- Start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms
- If necessary, add screening with breast MRI
Taking medication to reduce the risk of breast cancer
Medications such as tamoxifen and raloxifene can help lower the risk of breast cancer. However, raloxifene can only be used in women who have gone through menopause, while tamoxifen can be used by women who have not yet gone through menopause.
The doctor will explain the effects of these drugs. Before using them, it is important to consider the risks and benefits of taking these drugs.
Surgery is a way to prevent hereditary breast cancer
Prophylactic mastectomy surgery can be an option to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer for those at high risk. Apart from that, you can also remove the ovaries.
But keep in mind there is no way to prevent breast cancer for sure. Even though surgery has been performed and can reduce the risk, the possibility of developing breast cancer still exists.
How to prevent other hereditary breast cancers
Apart from what has been mentioned above, of course you have to maintain your health. Live a healthy lifestyle and do several things such as:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Because weight gain is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer after menopause.
- Active sports: Physical to vigorous activity is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. So it’s important to keep exercising regularly.
- Avoid or limit alcohol: The level of alcohol intake can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Breastfeeding: Giving breast milk to children is beneficial for reducing the risk of breast cancer.
These are several ways to prevent hereditary breast cancer that you can do. Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor if you have questions about breast cancer.
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