title: Screening for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in breast cancer patients from Mexico: the public health perspective.
abstract: Genetic testing for mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 has potentially important public health implications. Through judicious testing of women believed to be at high risk for early-onset breast cancer and for ovarian cancer, it is possible to identify highly-predisposed women prior to the development of cancer. Current preventive options include preventive mastectomy, preventive oophorectomy, tamoxifen and oral contraceptives. The ability to offer genetic testing in Mexico on a widespread level is enhanced if the common founder mutations in the two genes can be discovered or if the cost of genetic sequencing is reduced. It is important that a genetic testing service be a multi-disciplinary effort with co-ordinated follow-up.
authors: Women's College Research Institute, University of Toronto, Canada. steven.narod@wchospital.ca
authors: Steven A
authors: SA
authors: Narod
mesh_terms: D019313:BRCA1 Protein / Q000235:genetics*; D024682:BRCA2 Protein / Q000235:genetics*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006801:Humans; D008800:Mexico; D009154:Mutation; D011634:Public Health
chemical_list: D019313:BRCA1 Protein; D024682:BRCA2 Protein