The Margie Petersen Breast Center at Saint John’s Health Center is committed to offering comprehensive evaluation and screening services. We consider each patient’s personal and family health history, and if needed, we offer a Hereditary Cancer Risk Consultation and genetic testing. Our on-site Genetics team ensures you receive the most current information and recommendations.
Understanding Cancer and Genetics
All cancers result from genetic errors (mutations), but most develop over time due to aging or environmental factors. However, about 10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited risk factors. These risks can come from either side of the family and are considered separately.
There is a growing recognition of the role of inherited risk for breast cancer, with some guidelines now recommending that ALL women with breast cancer be offered genetic testing. As we have Genetics expertise on site at the Breast Center, we will always be able to provide the most current information and recommendations to our patients.
Factors Increasing Inherited Breast Cancer Risk
- Breast cancer diagnosed before age 50
- Multiple cancers in one person
Close relatives with:
- Ovarian cancer
- Male breast cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Breast cancer under age 50
- Aggressive prostate cancer
- Certain pathologic findings (e.g., triple-negative breast cancer)
- Specific ethnic backgrounds (e.g., Ashkenazi Jewish)
- Patterns of excess cancers in close relatives, especially before age 50
Inherited Mutations and Your Future Risk
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the most common causes of inherited breast cancer risk. Other genes like PALB2, CHEK2, and ATM also contribute. Our Genetics Program offers comprehensive panel testing to identify a wide range of genetic mutations. Inheriting a mutation increases cancer risk but doesn’t guarantee cancer will develop.
If a genetic mutation is identified, it provides critical information about your future cancer risk and can help direct risk control and treatment strategies. In families with strong indications of inherited risk, a specific known mutation may not always be found. If you are found to be at higher risk for future cancers, management options such as risk reducing (“prophylactic”) surgery, specialized imaging studies like breast MRI, medication use, and lifestyle changes will be discussed. Test results also help us estimate breast and other cancer risks for your close relatives.
High-Risk Program and Genetics Counseling
At the Margie Petersen Breast Center, our High-Risk Program helps women at increased risk for breast cancer navigate their care options. Each patient meets with a Breast Specialist to create a personalized plan based on their history and genetic testing. We coordinate care for those with both positive and negative genetic mutations, ensuring comfort with screening options. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation.
Working alongside our Genetic Counselors, the High-Risk Program provides a pathway for those individuals found with both positive and negative genetic mutations. Our High-Risk Program aims to coordinate your care and help you feel comfortable with your screening options.
Lifetime Risk and BRCA Mutation
The lifetime risk of breast cancer for women is approximately 1 in 8 women, or about 13%. However, this risk significantly increases for women with inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Women with these mutations have a lifetime breast cancer risk of more than 60%. This heightened risk is due to the crucial role BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes play in repairing damaged DNA. When these genes are mutated, their ability to repair DNA is compromised, leading to an accumulation of genetic errors that can result in cancer.
In addition to the increased risk of developing breast cancer, women with BRCA mutations are also at a higher risk of developing cancer at a younger age and may have a greater likelihood of developing cancer in both breasts2. Understanding these risks allows for more personalized and proactive management strategies, such as increased surveillance, preventive surgeries, and medication to reduce cancer risk.
Risk Comparison with BRCA
| General Population | With a BRCA 1 or 2 mutation | |
| Breast cancer in women | ~ 12.5% | 40-87% |
| Second primary breast cancer | 4-11% | 20-64% |
| Ovarian cancer | < 1.5% | 16-44% |
| Male breast cancer | 0.05% | 1-7% |
| Pancreatic cancer | < 1% | < 7% |
Cancer Prevention
We recommend yearly updates of family history, advances in testing technology, and changes in risk management options.
Increased Surveillance
- Twice-yearly clinical breast exams
- Yearly mammograms
- Yearly breast MRIs
Medication to Reduce Risk
- Oral antiestrogen medicines like tamoxifen and raloxifene can reduce the risk of new breast cancer.
Preventative Surgery
- Some women choose prophylactic mastectomies to reduce breast cancer risk. This decision should be discussed with your physician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why should I consider genetic testing for breast cancer?
Genetic testing can identify inherited mutations that increase cancer risk. We can help guide you with personalized risk management and prevention strategies.
What does a positive genetic test result mean for me?
A positive result indicates a higher risk of developing cancer, allowing for proactive measures like increased surveillance, medication, or surgery to reduce risk. Our aim is to reduce that risk and support you.
Can I still be at high risk for breast cancer even if my genetic test is negative?
Yes, clinical factors and family history can still indicate high risk, and appropriate management strategies will be discussed. Our genetics specialist can explain your history more specifically.
How often should I update my family history and risk management plan?
Yearly updates ensure that any changes in family history or advances in testing and management options are considered in your care plan.
At Margie Petersen Breast Center, we welcome your questions about hereditary cancer risk and genetic testing. We are ready to support you every step of the way.
Contact the Margie Petersen Breast Center
The Margie Petersen Breast Center at Providence Saint John’s Health Center is widely renown for its outstanding and compassionate patient care, expert surgical and medical team, and ability to fully evaluate any breast condition in one day.
Meet Our Breast Health Experts
The Breast Health Clinic can be reached at (310) 582-7209. If you have questions regarding a new symptom or want to make an appointment for evaluation please call and a staff member will assist with navigating you in the right direction.
