Breast Cancer and Genetics: Know Your Risk

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – a time to focus on prevention as well as early detection and treatment. While most breast cancers aren’t inherited, 5–10% are linked to genetic mutations passed down through families. Knowing your genetic risk can be life-changing, and Bayhealth offers advanced testing to help you take charge of your health.

Hereditary Cancer 101

Inherited mutations – most often in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes – can greatly increase the risk of breast and other cancers. These can be passed from either parent, and men can be carriers too.

“Understanding your family history and genetic makeup is a crucial step toward proactive cancer prevention,” said Rishi Sawhney, MD, of Bayhealth Cancer Institute. “These mutations don’t discriminate by gender, so men should also be aware of their potential risk.”

If you test positive for a mutation, you and your care team can take proactive steps such as:

• Earlier, more frequent screenings.
• Risk-reducing medications.
• Lifestyle changes.
• Preventive surgeries, in some cases.

“Genetic testing empowers patients by giving them information that can guide personalized strategies to reduce their cancer risk,” Dr. Sawhney explained. “Our goal is to help people live healthier, longer lives through early intervention.”

Testing can also guide health decisions for relatives who may share the same mutation.

Who Should Consider Testing?

Talk to your doctor if:

• You or a close relative had breast cancer before age 50.
• Your family has ovarian, pancreatic, or aggressive prostate cancer.
• You have a known BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation.
• You are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.
• You have family history of multiple cancers (of any type).
• You’ve had a cancer diagnosis (of any type) under age 50.

Genetic Testing at Bayhealth

Through a clinical partnership with Penn Medicine’s Telegenetics Program, Bayhealth offers on-site genetic testing and genetic counseling via secure video at our Kent and Sussex campuses. Counselors from Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center review your personal and family history, recommend testing, and help interpret results.

“This telehealth approach breaks down barriers to access, making expert genetic counseling available to more patients in our community,” said Dr. Sawhney. “It’s a convenient and confidential way to get the support you need.”

This service — available through Bayhealth Cancer Institute — provides valuable insight into cancer risk and helps our team tailor your prevention or treatment plan.

Take Action Today

Your genes don’t define your future, but understanding them can help you protect it. If you may be at risk for hereditary breast cancer, schedule a genetic counseling appointment with Bayhealth today.

Call 302-674-4401 to learn more or to participate in our Telegenetics program.