About Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome

What is Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome?

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) is an inherited genetic disorder that increases a person's risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. It is caused by mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are responsible for producing proteins that help repair damaged DNA. People with HBOC have a much higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer than the general population.

What are the symptoms of Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome?

The most common symptoms of Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) include:

-Early onset of breast cancer (before age 50)
-Multiple cases of breast cancer in the family
-Multiple cases of ovarian cancer in the family
-A family history of male breast cancer
-A family history of pancreatic cancer
-A family history of prostate cancer
-A family history of melanoma
-A family history of colorectal cancer
-A personal history of breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer
-A personal history of pre-cancerous breast or ovarian lesions
-A personal history of multiple breast biopsies
-A personal history of multiple ovarian cysts
-A personal history of endometrial cancer
-A personal history of fallopian tube cancer
-A personal history of primary peritone

What are the causes of Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome?

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC) is caused by mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These mutations are inherited from a person’s parents and can increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

What are the treatments for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome?

The primary treatment for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome is risk-reducing surgery. This includes removal of the breasts (mastectomy) and ovaries (oophorectomy). Other treatments may include hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Genetic counseling and regular screening for cancer is also recommended.

What are the risk factors for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome?

1. Family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer
2. Personal history of breast and/or ovarian cancer
3. BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
4. Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
5. Early onset of breast cancer (before age 50)
6. Multiple cases of breast cancer in the family
7. Male breast cancer in the family
8. Multiple cases of ovarian cancer in the family
9. Multiple primary cancers in the same individual
10. Multiple generations affected by breast and/or ovarian cancer

Is there a cure/medications for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome?

Yes, there are treatments available for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome. These include medications such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, and aromatase inhibitors, as well as preventive surgeries such as prophylactic mastectomy and oophorectomy. Genetic counseling and lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise may also be recommended.