Genetic Susceptibility to Breast Cancer and Radiation Risks from Chest X-rays

Strategic Insights -

Women with BRCA1 and BCRA2 mutations may be more susceptible to breast cancer from low-dose ionizing radiation, according to a study of 1600 women. The research found that those who underwent chest X-rays were 54% more likely to develop breast cancer. A significant increase in risk was observed in women who received X-rays before the age of 20, with the risk of breast cancer before their 40th birthday more than doubling.

Key Takeaways:

  • Women with BRCA1 and BCRA2 mutations are 54% more likely to develop breast cancer if they have undergone chest X-rays.
  • The increased risk is particularly pronounced in women who received X-rays before the age of 20, with the risk of breast cancer before their 40th birthday more than doubling.
  • The study found no increased risk of breast cancer from mammograms, which are used for breast cancer screening.
  • The BRCA1 and BCRA2 genes are involved in repairing damage to DNA in breast cells.
  • Young women with a family history of these mutations may wish to consider alternatives to X-rays, according to Dr. David Goldgar.
  • The study suggests that low-dose ionizing radiation may be a risk factor for breast cancer in women with genetic predisposition.
  • Dr. Goldgar's team is calling for further studies to confirm these findings and explore the potential risks.

Statistics:

  • 1600 women were part of the study.
  • 54% increase in risk of breast cancer from chest X-rays.
  • Risk of breast cancer before 40th birthday more than doubled in women who received X-rays before age 20.
  • Cost of pemetrexed disodium, a treatment for mesothelioma, is approximately GBP8000 per patient.

Sources:

  • Dr. David Goldgar's study discussed in the article.
  • The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (Nice).
  • The Scottish Medicines Consortium.
  • Quality Improvement Scotland.
  • Professor Andrew Stephens, of Birmingham University.
  • Professor Nick Thatcher, lung consultant at the Christie Hospital in Manchester.
  • Dr. Goldgar's study: "Association between ionizing radiation exposure and breast cancer risk in women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations" (Study reference not provided in the article).