You may wonder why your gynaecologists asks you if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer during your routine check-up. There is in fact a hereditary element in women with certain breast cancers. These women will carry an abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. This is more likely so if she develops breast cancer at a young age. The abnormal gene can be tested for if there is a history of breast or ovarian cancer in the family. If the defective gene is found there is a 60% chance of developing breast cancer and a 55% chance of ovarian cancer. Some women will, in such a case, opt for elective removal of their breasts and ovaries, as in my patient. She did the test as there was a strong family history of breast cancer. The test came back positive test for BRCA1 and she decided that she didnt want to take the risk and so had a bilateral mastectomy. I then performed a video laparoscopic (key-hole) removal of both her ovaries. Of course this will bring about a menopausal state. However I discussed this with her beforehand and she decided that she would rather take HRT for life then risk an ovarian cancer. Women who develop breast cancer should do the BRCA1 & 2 gene and if positive should consider having their ovaries removed as well.
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