Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It is estimated that one in every four deaths is caused by cancer. Two types of mutations can be present in a tumor: germline and somatic. Germline mutations are inherited from a person’s parents, and somatic mutations occur during a person’s lifetime. Although somatic mutations cause most cancers, inherited genetic mutations cause about five to ten percent of all cancers. Thanks to recent advances in genetic testing, we can target treatments specifically for cancers caused by inherited mutations. This blog post will discuss how genetic information is changing modern cancer treatment and the role of PARP inhibitors in particular.
Mutations in the BRCA gene are the most well-known inherited cancer-causing mutations. BRCA mutations have been linked to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. PARP inhibitors are a type of drug that can be used to treat cancers with BRCA mutations. In 2018, the FDA approved two PARP inhibitors to treat metastatic breast cancer with a BRCA mutation. PARP inhibitors are also approved for appropriate patients with other cancers like ovarian cancer, prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer, ask your doctor about genetic testing. This information can help guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes. Thanks to advances in genetic testing, we are one step closer to winning the fight against cancer.
Genetic testing can also reveal if you have an increased risk of developing certain cancers. If you have a family history of cancer or certain inherited mutations, you may be at a higher risk of developing cancer. Your doctor can use this information to help make recommendations about cancer screenings and other preventive measures that may be right for you.
Who should consider genetic testing:
Patient said multiple family members with history of cancer, patients with personal history of multiple cancers and patients will develop cancer at a young age may get the most benefit from genetic testing. As new treatment options for cancer become available, more and more patients are becoming candidates for genetic testing.
Some cancers are more likely than others to to be caused by an inherited genetic mutations. These include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, sarcoma and colon cancer.
Patients should be aware that the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) protects against some forms of discrimination based on genetic information. However patients should consider emotional and interpersonal impact of potential positive genetic testing results.
If you are considering genetic testing, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Genetic testing is not right for everyone. Your doctor can help you decide if genetic testing is appropriate for you based on your personal and family history.
- Genetic testing is confidential. This means that your results will only be shared with people who have a legitimate need to know, such as your doctor or other members of your healthcare team.
- Genetic testing is an important tool, but it is just one piece of information that your doctor can use to make decisions about cancer treatment.
When making treatment recommendations, your doctor will also consider other factors, such as the type and stage of cancer.
Cancer is a complex disease, and there is still much to learn. However, thanks to advances in genetic testing, we are progressing in the fight against cancer. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, talk to your doctor about your treatment options. Genetic testing may help you make informed decisions about your care.
What do you think about how genetic information is changing modern cancer treatment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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