Maternal cancer history holds hidden risk factors for prostate health

A family history of ovarian cancer in a mother or breast cancer in a sister can point to an inherited susceptibility for prostate cancer in men. People often focus only on male relatives like an affected father, brother, or uncle when discussing prostate risk. However, inherited gene changes like BRCA2 can increase prostate cancer risk and can come from either parent.

Medical Guidance

Dr Thangarajan Rajkumar, Director of Research Oncology at MedGenome Labs Ltd, states that identifying inherited cancer mutations can guide medical attention, screening, and treatment for relatives. Genetic counseling helps figure out who needs testing and explains what the findings mean. A pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant increases cancer risk, but having one does not mean cancer is certain. A negative result might not fully explain a strong family history, while a variant of uncertain significance lacks enough evidence to determine its effect on risk.

Screening and Treatment

Men with a pathogenic BRCA2 variant should talk about PSA-based prostate cancer screening starting around age 40, with frequency based on personal and family history. An elevated PSA result needs further checks because the test is not specific to cancer alone. For patients with advanced cancer, specific genetic alterations can help guide treatment options, including PARP inhibitors.

Context

Understanding inherited genetic risks allows families to take early action and make informed health decisions together. Genetic testing bridges the gap between family medical history and proactive clinical care.