Which statement accurately reflects breast cancer risk?

Which statement accurately reflects breast cancer risk?

• A. All breast cancers are genetically determined
• B. Only 5%-10% of all breast cancers are due to tumor-suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2
• C. Family history is irrelevant in breast cancer risk
• D. BRCA mutations account for the majority of breast cancers

Answer: (B)

The statement indicating that only 5%-10% of all breast cancers are due to tumor-suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 is accurate and reflects the understanding of genetic factors in breast cancer risk. While BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can significantly increase an individual's risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers, they are not responsible for the majority of cases. The vast majority of breast cancers occur sporadically, due to a combination of environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and other genetic factors that do not involve BRCA mutations. Additionally, understanding this statistic is crucial for breast care nurses when assessing patients' risk and advising on genetic testing, as it underlines the importance of looking beyond just genetic mutations when considering breast cancer risk.

The statement indicating that only 5%-10% of all breast cancers are due to tumor-suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 is accurate and reflects the understanding of genetic factors in breast cancer risk. While BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can significantly increase an individual's risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers, they are not responsible for the majority of cases. The vast majority of breast cancers occur sporadically, due to a combination of environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and other genetic factors that do not involve BRCA mutations. Additionally, understanding this statistic is crucial for breast care nurses when assessing patients' risk and advising on genetic testing, as it underlines the importance of looking beyond just genetic mutations when considering breast cancer risk.