Breast Cancer Genetics: Relevance to Oncology Practice

Our knowledge of genetic mechanisms involved in cancer initiation, promotion, and progression recently has expanded. In order to benefit from this expansion and to apply genetic discoveries to current protocols for prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and monitoring for minimal residual disease, a working knowledge must be developed of the genetic principles, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, and genetic models of carcinogenesis. Genetic susceptibility testing for cancer soon will be introduced into oncology practice through established familial risk counseling programs, and the oncologist must be prepared to address the medical, ethical, legal, economic, psychological, and social issues that accompany this testing.