Breast cancer and uterine cancer are among the cancers that women need to be most vigilant about because they can be inherited genetically, causing the age of onset to decrease continuously. So, if this problem happens to us, how can we cope? Here is advice from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Obchula Trachu, an internist and medical genetics specialist at Phyathai 2 Hospital, which we bring to you…
Blood test confirmation… Does our “genetics” increase the risk of cancer?
Breast cancer and uterine cancer significantly affect women’s health and confidence. Medically, for patients to know if they have hereditary cancer genes, a blood test is required for clear confirmation. However, not everyone needs to be tested. Patients who want to undergo blood testing for genes that increase the risk of hereditary cancer should start by observing if anyone in their family has a history of cancer, especially close blood relatives such as grandmothers, mothers, maternal siblings, and their own siblings. If there are 1-2 family members with cancer, one should suspect that they might carry hidden hereditary cancer genes in their bloodline. Once aware of the risk, it is advisable to consult a specialist for advice and proceed with blood testing.
Cancer… The earlier you know, the sooner you treat, the better the outcome
Most people fear knowing they might have hereditary cancer, but in reality, knowing the risk in advance helps us adapt and find ways to manage our health to reduce the risk. It also helps in better life and marriage planning because hereditary cancer can be passed on to children. Therefore, doctors generally offer the following treatment options.
For younger patients, concerns often focus on happiness after marriage, especially regarding having children, which requires psychological adjustment. Doctors provide several good treatment recommendations, such as advising marriage and childbirth between the ages of 28-33, a period with a lower risk of cancer. Additionally, medical technology can be used to screen and preserve eggs without cancer genes for healthy offspring. Compared to the past, there were almost no methods to prevent gene transmission from generation to generation.
Regarding breast cancer, doctors can selectively remove only the cancerous part while preserving the breast. Early detection when the tumor is still small and has not spread increases the chances of successful treatment. Thus, the earlier the detection, the higher the chances of complete recovery, faster healing, and breast preservation.
When should those at risk undergo cancer screening?
- For those at risk, doctors recommend screening for breast and uterine cancer starting from age 20 and scheduling regular check-ups to monitor any abnormalities.
- For patients who have had children and achieved a certain level of family success, doctors may recommend hysterectomy to prevent future risks. For example, Angelina Jolie, a world-famous actress, chose to have her breasts and uterus removed due to hereditary cancer risk. However, Angelina had already married and had children, so she decided to undergo surgery to prevent future serious illness without worry, allowing her to continue caring for her children.
“Having hereditary cancer genes means cancer can occur at any time, not necessarily waiting until the age of 40-50. Therefore, screening to detect it early increases the chances of effectively fighting cancer and allows for better life planning.”
Dr. Obchula Trachu
Internist, Cancer Center
Phyathai 2 Hospital
