NICE recently announced its updated draft guidelines for Familial Breast Cancer, which include the use of preventative drugs for women at an increased risk of developing breast cancer. NHS Choices’ summary outlines what the changes are and what evidence they’re based on.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, and about 1 in 8 women in the UK develop it. Only a small number of breast cancers – about 5-10% – are thought to be due to an inherited faulty gene.
People who are at increased risk may have regular screening, either with mammography (breast x-rays) or MRI scanning, depending on their individual situation.
Treatment to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer has been limited to:
Both these options are only suitable for a small number of women.
This is the first time that the NICE guidelines have recommended the use of drug treatments to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at a higher risk.
The guidelines are due to be published in June 2013. Until then, Macmillan has lots of clear, impartial information to help women who:
The booklet Cancer
genetics – how cancer sometimes runs in families is for anyone worried that cancer may
run in their family. It covers cancer and genes, inherited cancer, genetic
counselling and testing, and coping with familial cancer risk.
Understanding risk-reducing breast surgery is a booklet aimed at women who know they have an increased risk of developing breast cancer and are considering having their breasts removed. It explores the different types of breast surgery and breast reconstruction, what’s involved, as well as the emotional impact.
Go to be.macmillan.org.uk to order any of our booklets for free.
For anyone worried about their family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer, our online tool OPERA could help. By answering about 10 questions, this tool gives you a personalised assessment about your inherited breast cancer risk.
We also have lots of online information about cancer genetics at macmillan.org.uk/genetics
Remember, if you have any questions about cancer genetics or treatment, you can talk to our cancer support specialists.
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