Nancy Lapid : “New Breast Cancer Genes in African Women Enhance Risk Assessment”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Breast cancer genetic risk assessment
2. African ancestry breast cancer genes

A study published on Monday identified twelve breast cancer genes in women of African ancestry, potentially improving risk prediction for the disease and highlighting differences from women of European descent. The research, conducted on over 40,000 women in the United States, Africa, and Barbados, revealed mutations not previously linked to breast cancer, indicating variations in genetic risk factors between African and European women. The findings, published in Nature Genetics, included a mutation with a strong association to the disease. The study also found that certain genes known to increase breast cancer risk in white women did not have the same impact in women of African ancestry. This research could lead to more accurate breast cancer risk assessment tools for Black women, who have higher rates of early-onset breast cancer and a greater risk of triple-negative breast cancer. Further evaluation is needed before these new genetic variants are widely tested.

The Discovery of Twelve Breast Cancer Genes in Women of African Ancestry

Recent research has unveiled groundbreaking findings in the field of breast cancer genetics, particularly in women of African descent. A study conducted on more than 40,000 women of African ancestry across the United States, Africa, and Barbados has identified twelve specific genes that may play a crucial role in predicting the risk of breast cancer in this population.

Diversity in Genetic Studies

Traditionally, genetic studies related to breast cancer have predominantly focused on women of European descent. However, this new research sheds light on potential differences in genetic risk factors between females of African and European ancestry, emphasizing the need for more inclusive studies in the field of cancer genetics.

Unprecedented Discoveries

Some of the mutations identified in the study had not been previously associated with breast cancer, or were not as strongly linked to the disease as observed in this new analysis. One particular mutation stood out for its significant association with breast cancer, challenging conventional notions in cancer genetics.

Risk Disparities and Implications

Black women in the United States face higher rates of breast cancer before the age of 50, as well as a higher incidence of aggressive forms of the disease. The newly identified genes, when combined with established breast cancer genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, have enabled the development of a more accurate breast cancer risk score for women of African ancestry.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Genetic Variants

Six of the identified genes were found to be associated with an elevated risk of triple-negative breast cancer, the most aggressive type of the disease. This form of breast cancer disproportionately affects Black women, highlighting the importance of understanding genetic predispositions in different populations.

Future Implications and Recommendations

While the potential of the newly identified genetic variants is promising, further evaluation is needed before they can be incorporated into routine testing. The American Cancer Society emphasizes the importance of genetic testing for all patients, irrespective of race, and acknowledges the barriers faced by Black women in accessing such testing.

These findings not only contribute to a deeper understanding of breast cancer in women of African ancestry but also underscore the importance of diversity in genetic research. By exploring the unique genetic makeup of different populations, we can pave the way for more targeted and effective approaches to breast cancer prevention and treatment.