Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that is more common among women and not only affects the physical and mental health of patients, but may also place a heavy burden on families. With further medical research, there is growing concern about the genetic factors of breast cancer, in particular the impact of family history on the risk of breast cancer. This paper will explore whether breast cancer is inherited and how this risk can be addressed.
First, it needs to be made clear that breast cancer is not a direct genetic disease, but that genetic factors play an important role in the occurrence of breast cancer. Research has shown that the occurrence of breast cancer is associated with multiple genetic variations, the most prominent of which are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The mutations of these two genes are closely related to the high risk of breast and ovarian cancer. If someone in the family carries these mutation genes, the risk of illness of other family members increases accordingly.
However, genetic factors are not the only determinants. Environmental factors, lifestyles, eating habits, etc. may affect the incidence of breast cancer. For example, late marriage and child-bearing, the age at first birth, lack of childbearing or breastfeeding experience, long-term use of contraceptives, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and lack of exercise may increase the risk of breast cancer.
So how do we judge whether breast cancer is inherited from the family? There is a relatively high genetic risk if several members of the family suffer from breast cancer, especially those in the immediate family (e.g. mothers, sisters, daughters) who were diagnosed with breast cancer at a younger age (usually before the age of 50). In this context, it is recommended that family members undertake genetic counselling and consider conducting genetic tests to assess the possibility of carrying mutation genes.
For individuals carrying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, the risk of breast cancer in their lifetime may be as high as 60-80 per cent, compared to about 12 per cent for the general population. Thus, for these high-risk groups, doctors may recommend more active preventive measures, such as regular mammography X-rays, mammography MRIs and even preventive mammography.
In addition to genetic factors, breast cancer prevention includes lifestyle adjustments. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer. Women friends are advised to do the following:
1. Maintain healthy weight and avoid obesity.
2. A balanced diet, with more fruit and vegetables, and reduced intake of high-fat food.
3. Motivation, with a medium intensity of at least 150 minutes per week.
4. Limit alcohol consumption and minimize or limit alcohol consumption.
5. Avoid the use of hormone substitution therapy, especially for long periods of time.
Know and manage their own family history and conduct regular breast cancer screening.
In short, the occurrence of breast cancer is the result of a combination of factors, of which genetic factors are only one. In the case of individuals with family history of breast cancer, vigilance should be exercised to assess personal risks through genetic counselling and genetic testing and to take appropriate preventive measures. At the same time, regardless of family history, all women should be concerned about breast health, a healthy lifestyle and regular breast cancer screening to reduce the risk of disease. Through scientific methods and positive attitudes, we can effectively prevent and control the occurrence of breast cancer.
Breast cancer, breast cancer fear, female
