Early-onset breast cancer
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women globally, with early-onset breast cancer (EOBC) presenting unique challenges due to its aggressive nature and poorly understood etiology. Although only 10% of breast cancers are linked to known genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2, a significant portion of EOBC cases lacks identifiable genetic predispositions, suggesting other contributing factors. Previous research has hinted at the potential role of somatic mutations in normal breast tissue adjacent to tumors in influencing cancer risk, particularly in individuals with a high-risk family history.The study underscores the complexity of EOBC's genetic landscape, highlighting the significant role of somatic mutations in both tumor and adjacent normal breast tissues. The findings suggest that the mutational burden in EOBC is not significantly correlated with patient age, emphasizing the need for further research into the molecular mechanisms contributing to EOBC. This research paves the way for more targeted prevention and treatment strategies, taking into account the intricate interplay of genetic factors in breast cancer.