New breast cancer gene discovered
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UK researchers have identified five genetic clues linking to why women have a family history of breast cancer.
There are now 18 genetic variations connected to a small increased risk of breast cancer.
The researchers from Cambridge University looked at targeted screening and treatment of women more likely to get breast cancer.
It is thought about one in 20 of all breast cancers are down to inherited faults in known genes.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with more than 45,000 cases diagnosed each year.
The researchers studied around 4,000 British patients with a family history of breast cancer, and then the DNA of another 24,000 women, with and without breast cancer.
They found five “spots” on the human genome linked to a family history of breast cancer.
Dr Douglas Easton of the University of Cambridge said: “We know for sure that these gene variations are associated with risk.
“It also contributes to our understanding of the biology of the disease.”
Women with a strong family history of breast cancer are already given early screenings for signs of the tumour, and are entitled to genetic tests.
The 18 genetic changes linked to breast cancer are not currently tested for. They are thought to account for around 8% of inherited cases of breast cancer.
Dr Caroline Hacker, policy manager at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “This could lead to new genetic tests which may help identify women who have an increased risk of breast cancer due to inherited faults in the genes.
“Hereditary breast cancer is rare and only around one in 20 of all breast cancers are due to inherited faults in breast cancer genes.
“Although there isn’t anything we can do about the genes we inherit, we do know that you can educe your risk of breast cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption and exercising regularly.”
Dr Helen George, head of science information at Cancer Research UK, said: “This research takes us a step closer to developing a powerful genetic test for the disease.
“Such a test could help doctors identify women who have an increased breast cancer risk so that they can make informed decisions about how to take steps to reduce their chance of developing the disease.”
By Deepika Dudakia
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