Mastectomy may save from genetically determined breast cancer

Radical breast resection surgery can prevent the occurrence of breast cancer. American geneticists have released new information that more than 40% of all family cases of breast cancer & nbsp; directly due to genetic mutation. Scrap BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can trigger the pathological process at any age throughout life.

Moreover, the hormonal background of a woman does not play the most important role in this matter. If there are cases of breast cancer among family members, there is a need to conduct a genetic analysis for the presence of a similar genetic mutation. And the discovery of such is an indication for performing a mastectomy – breast removal surgery. Such a radical step will help avoid the problem of developing breast cancer in carriers of the "mutated" gene.

General control genes for tumor growth BRCA

Tumor suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 are normally “helpers” female body. They encode proteins that are involved in the repair of DNA damage and are responsible for normal cell proliferation. In addition, they help to control & nbsp; growth and reproduction of cells of organs that are under the influence of hormones, including mammary gland, during periods of hormonal surges, for example, during menopause or pregnancy. In the absence of pathology in the tumor growth genes, they contribute to the natural functioning of breast tissue and prevent the occurrence of breast cancer.

Genetic mutation leads to breast cancer

It has been proven that the genetic mutation of the BRCA genes significantly increases the risk of developing a malignant process in the breast. In the presence of a genetic breakdown in the BRCA genes, they cease to perform their function, and in organs subject to hormonal influence, uncontrolled cell proliferation occurs, which ultimately leads to the development of breast cancer. The presence of a genetic mutation increases up to 90% the likelihood of developing breast cancer throughout the life of a carrier of the mutant gene. In addition, mutation BRCA genes play a role in causing an even more dangerous condition - ovarian cancer, as well as breast cancer & nbsp; among the male half of the population.

DNA analysis will help identify a genetic mutation

DNA analysis is the only method for detecting mutations in the BRCA genes. To date, published information about the existence of about 450 types of BRCA 1 and BRCA2 mutations. Information about cases of a malignant process in the mammary gland or ovaries in family members and close relatives should prompt the idea of \u200b\u200bconducting a genetic study. & nbsp; The genetic laboratory can provide three options for results:

homozygous normal gene carrier;
heterozygous mutation carrier;
homozygous mutation carrier.

The presence of a mutant gene does not indicates directly the development of breast cancer, but significantly increases the likelihood of its occurrence in the future.

Mastectomy can save you from breast cancer

The most effective treatment currently available for breast cancer caused by mutated BRCA genes is breast removal. Mastectomy, a radical operation to remove the mammary glands, has recently become very popular among Hollywood actresses. Prophylactic mastectomy is justified if DNA analysis has confirmed the presence of a genetic mutation in cancer growth suppressor genes. With the help of a mastectomy, the breast tissue, which makes it almost impossible for pathological cell proliferation and, as a result, the development of breast cancer. If a woman wishes, today with the help of plastic surgeons it is possible to restore the normal appearance of the breast using artificial implants. Prophylactic mastectomy is becoming more and more popular every day.