Cancer and Your Genes

Other Cancers Seen in Families with RAD51D Mutations

Matt Mealiffe, M.D. — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 17:52:05 -0700

Two days ago we discussed a recent study by Dr. Nazneen Rahman and colleagues which clearly demonstrated that inherited mutations in a gene called RAD51D result in a substantial elevation in risk for ovarian cancer. This elevation in risk was seen in some families in which other cancer types were seen in the family tree. So, does this mean that the other cancer types in these families are also due to the RAD51D mutations?

RAD51D - A New Hereditary Ovarian Cancer Gene With Important Implications

Matt Mealiffe, M.D. — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 13:18:58 -0700

If you have a compelling family history of ovarian cancer that is not explained by a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, it is possible that a mutation in the RAD51D gene could be the explanation.

New BRCA1 Single Molecule Sequencing Method Published

Matt Mealiffe, M.D. — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 17:23:12 -0700

We just mentioned at BRCAscoop that a new paper in Genome Research from Helicos reports a new single molecule sequencing strategy for the BRCA1 gene that is discussed in a way that could leave one wondering whether they think they...

Family History of Cancer Changes Over Time: Why You Need to Keep Your Primary Care Doctor Updated

Matt Mealiffe, M.D. — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 15:41:54 -0700

If you are interested in cancer prevention, you may know that for common cancers family history is one of the most important and useful tools that we have to identify people at elevated risk (who are likely to benefit most...

New Financial Assistance Program for Young Women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations Needing Help Paying for Screening Breast MRI

Matt Mealiffe, M.D. — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:51:53 -0700

In a previous post we mentioned a Christina Applegate appearance on Oprah to discuss both learning that she (Ms. Applegate) had Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer risk due to a BRCA1 mutation and the aftermath. Since then, The Christina Applegate Foundation has worked to promote awareness of the importance of breast MRI screening for high-risk women. However, one key impediment for some women is the cost of MRI. Now, Right Action for Women is doing something to address this problem.