Prostate cancer may have a genetic cause common to breast cancer

health

Genetic tests allow the investigation of variants associated with an increased risk of cancer

Men who have family members with breast cancer, among other factors, may also have an increased risk of developing prostate tumors. Variants in several genes that have been implicated in hereditary predisposition to breast cancer may also be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

It is estimated that up to 10% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer, particularly those with high-risk or metastatic tumors, have clinically relevant variants (formerly known as “mutations”) in genes involved in DNA repair. These hereditary changes can characterize an increased risk of developing neoplasms and can be identified in people with other types of cancer, such as breast cancer.

According to the geneticist at Sabin Diagnóstico e Saúde, Rosenelle Araújo, a history of cancer in the family may indicate the need for genetic investigation for hereditary predisposition to prostate cancer or other types.

“Variants in different genes may be involved in increasing the risk of developing tumors in different organs. Several genes that are associated with breast cancer, such as the ATM, BRCA1, BRCA2 and CHEK2 genes, can also determine an increased risk of developing prostate cancer.”

Colorectal, ovarian and endometrial cancer

Another example cited by the expert is Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition associated with colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer, which can also increase the risk of prostate cancer.

“Cancer predisposition syndromes are generally characterized by a profile of tumors and, often, the assessment of personal and family history allows the investigation to be directed towards some specific hypotheses. The same gene can increase the risk of developing different types of cancer.”

According to the doctor, genomics provides benefits for both patients and their families. “Understanding the molecular and genetic bases of neoplasms can contribute to prevention, early diagnosis and personalized treatment, in addition to helping to monitor family members.”

Genetic inheritance has always been a fundamental component in assessing the risk of developing certain health conditions. Therefore, it is important that patients inform their doctors about any family history of cancer during routine consultations, so that professionals can evaluate the indication for further investigations.

Genetic predisposition

“The diagnosis of a genetic predisposition syndrome for cancer can directly influence lifelong screening recommendations. This specific targeting can increase the chances of early detection of possible tumors, a fundamental factor in the effectiveness of treatment.”

Rosenelle recommends that genetic research begin, whenever possible, with those who have already been diagnosed with the disease.

“When we start the investigation with those who have not had a personal diagnosis of cancer, we may receive an uninformative result. It is also necessary to take into account that the majority of people who are diagnosed with cancer do not have a hereditary predisposition syndrome for neoplasms”,

explains

The geneticist reminds us that, regardless of family relationship or genetic predisposition, recommendations for healthy habits must be followed by everyone.

“Cancer is a condition with a multifactorial cause and genetic factors are one part of the equation. Therefore, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, practicing physical activity regularly and maintaining a healthy diet are important prevention measures,”

reinforces.

*With information from consultancy

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