DNA Testing for Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer can affect both men and women, but it is associated more with women as it affects over 45,000 women in the UK each year. Developing predominantly, but not exclusively, in women aged over 50 years, breast cancer shows as a lump in the breast tissue. Breast cancer can also have the appearance and feel of thickening in the breast, which can be distinguished from a lump. In fact, it is common for non-cancerous lumps to appear in the breasts quite frequently, with benign cysts, fibroadenomas and pre-menstrual lumpiness accounting for around 90% of all lumps detected. However, it remains essential that women check their breasts for any changes in their shape, feel, colour or appearance – breast cancer is most often first detected by the women who have it.
Other symptoms of breast cancer include nipple discharge that may contain blood, swelling in the armpits, dimpling of the breast skin or pain that cannot be attributed to menstrual activity. The causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, yet DNA testing breast cancer has revealed significant genetic markers that play a role in its development. In this respect, it is important to keep in mind that family history is a useful tool in breast cancer awareness although it is not usually the case that the disease is inherited from one family member to another. In fact, a genetic predisposition to breast cancer has been revealed by ongoing DNA research, which has found that people who carry the BRCA1, BRCA2 and TP53 genes have an increased risk of developing the disease.
For support and more information about breast cancer, please visit the Canadian Cancer Society website, a national cancer organisation which has been providing Canadians with information about cancer since it first formed in 1938.
Speak To International Biosciences About DNA Testing Genetic Predisposition for Breast Cancer
International Biosciences provide Genetic Predisposition testing to determine your genetic predisposition for important health conditions including cancers, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and obesity. Knowing which genetic disorders and diseases you are at risk from will allow you to plan to reduce it by making lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Contact International Biosciences on 1-800-969-5186 or click here to email us.