In human body, there are two types of genes which regulate a gene development (tumor suppressor gene) which are BRCA1 and BRCA2. If there is an abnormal developing or mutation. Accordingly those can cause breast cancer and ovarian cancer within the body including an inheritance. If people have inherited this unusual gene. In women, will result in high chances of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. On the other hands, for men the gene can increase chances of breast cancer as well.

About 5-10% of breast cancer and 10-15% of ovarian cancer are caused by inheritance.

About 80% of patients with a family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes were found as having an abnormal growth. Including mutation which were inherited through heredity. In addition, those with an abnormal BRCA1 and mutation most likely to have a chance of breast cancer including ovarian cancer before age of 50.

For those who have not been inherited with mutation of BRCA1 / 2 gene. Or if there is no family history of breast cancer. At an age of 50, accordingly there is only 2% chance of breast cancer at an age of 70. And 7% chance of breast cancer, including ovarian cancer chance is less than 2%.

However, for whom with inherited mutations of the BRCA1 / 2 gene or having a family history of breast cancer. At an age of 50, there is a chance of breast cancer about 33-50%. And at an age of 70, there is 56-87% chance of breast cancer. Moreover, including 27-44% chance of ovarian cancer.

How do we know if we have inherited unusual genes?

Genetic testing can be done by blood testing. And a person should receive counseling before and after an examination by a specialist. If a result shows that these genes are abnormal. Eventually, a doctor can be able to handle or reduce some risks of cancer.

At present there are many studies about a new way of examination, treatment including prevention of cancer for this type. Moreover, there are also further studies on how genetic counseling and results can be provided to patients. However, these studies have been developing quickly.

According to results of researches in Europe and America, found that breast and ovarian cancer abnormalities are caused by mutation in BRCA1 / 2 gene. And for that a chance of having the diseases can be decreased in 90% by periodic screening. And chemotherapy to prevent both breast and ovarian cancer in a case when an abnormality is being found. Therefore, a detection of BRCEA1 / 2 mutation will be used to diagnose the genetic risk for both types of cancer.