Genetic assessment and family history screening
Genomic medicine, which utilizes a person's individual DNA to assess disease risk and guide treatment,
is becoming increasingly important in how we understand and treat breast cancer.
This approach allows us to identify individuals who are at a higher risk of developing
breast cancer and provide them with actionable steps to reduce that risk.
In partnership with MUMS, Dr. Mahmoud Abu Dakka offers two gene tests that provide different insights:
the Invitae BRCA Breast Cancer STAT Panel and the AnteBC Test. Depending on your
specific needs, Dr. Abu Dakka can advise whether one or both tests would be beneficial for you.
Invitae BRCA STAT Panel
Certain rare gene mutations can significantly increase an individual's risk of breast cancer.
Through breast surgery consultations,
Dr. Abu Dakka offers the Invitae BRCA STAT Panel, which screens for the presence of BRCA 1
and BRCA 2 genes.
If either gene associated with breast cancer is detected, Dr. Abu Dakka will discuss
what this means and how to manage the risk moving forward.
This test is ideal for women who:
-
Have had breast cancer and want to assess their risk of developing cancer in the other breast.
-
Have a strong family history of breast cancer, which increases the likelihood of carrying one of these gene mutations.
-
In combination with the AnteBC Test, it can provide women with a strong or moderate family
history of breast cancer a more detailed understanding of their individual risk.
AnteBC Test
Recommended for women between the ages of 30 and 75, the AnteBC Test assesses the risk of developing breast cancer by
analyzing DNA for specific genetic variations associated with the disease. This test is especially useful for women
without a family history of breast cancer who still wish to understand their risk.
The AnteBC Test generates a score that estimates a woman's risk of developing breast cancer over the next ten years
compared to the average woman of the same age. While the score does not predict whether breast cancer will
definitely occur, it provides a personalized risk assessment. It's important to note that the score is specific
to the individual and does not indicate any risk to family members or children.
This test is best suited for women who do not have a strong family history of breast cancer but are still
interested in understanding their potential risk.
During consultations, Dr. Mahmoud Abu Dakka combines test results with personal risk factors to provide a
tailored guide for managing breast cancer risk.
