Breast Cancer and Genetics: What Your Family History May Tell You

When thinking about breast cancer risk, regular mammograms are an important part of the conversation. But there’s another piece of your health history that may provide valuable information: your genes.

Genetic screening and testing can help identify gene variations that may increase your risk of developing breast cancer and certain other cancers. Understanding that risk can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your health.

Is breast cancer genetic?

Most breast cancers are not caused by inherited genetic variations. However, some people are born with gene variations that can increase their risk of developing breast cancer.

That’s why knowing your family health history — on both sides of your family — can be important.

“Your family history can tell us a lot about your potential cancer risk. Knowing which cancers have occurred in your family can help us determine whether genetic testing is something you should consider,” said Bayhealth Hematologist Oncologist and Clinical Division Leader, Oncology Division Rishi Sawhney, MD.

Who should consider genetic testing for breast cancer?

You may qualify for genetic testing if:

• You have been diagnosed with breast cancer
• You have a family history of breast cancer, ovarian or fallopian tube cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer or gastric cancer
• You are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent

Genetic testing looks for specific gene variations associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. Having one of these variations does not mean you will develop cancer. Instead, the information can help you and your healthcare provider better understand your individual risk.

“Genetic testing gives us another piece of information to help patients understand their risk, and it can lead to personalized interventions that improve outcomes and potentially reduce the risk of advanced cancer,” said Dr. Sawhney. “It doesn’t replace recommended cancer screenings, including mammograms, but it can help us better understand what may be appropriate for each individual.”

Learn about your genetic cancer risk

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Bayhealth Cancer Institute is hosting a Breast Cancer Genetics Event on Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 5-7 p.m. at Bayhealth Outpatient Center, Total Care - Milton.

The event gives community members an opportunity to learn about their genetic cancer risk and, if appropriate, complete genetic testing without a separate appointment.

Visit Bayhealth.org/Genetics-Event to learn more or call 302-744-6512 to register or with questions.

Can’t make the event? Call 302-674-4401 to learn more about our integrated genetic testing program.