Mastectomy Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Mastectomy, including details on breast cancer, prosthesis, recovery, surgery, complications.

Time to reconsider subcutaneous mastectomy for breast-cancer prevention?

Metcalfe KA, Semple JL, Narod SA

Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Genetic testing for women at increased risk of developing breast cancer has moved from the research setting to become part of established clinical practice. By testing for inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2, we are identifying more and more women who have an 80% or more lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Since the discovery of BRCA1 in 1994, several clinical studies have led to strategies for reducing the risk of developing breast cancer, including prophylactic mastectomy, prophylactic oophorectomy, and preventive tamoxifen. We believe that in 2005, all prophylactic options, including subcutaneous and total mastectomy should be discussed and made available to women who find themselves unfortunate enough to have inherited a BRCA mutation.

Published 31 May 2005 in Lancet Oncol, 6(6): 431-4.
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