The potential benefits of genetic testing in breast and ovarian cancer

This article reviews some of the recent molecular aspects of breast/ovarian tumorigenesis, addresses the application of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations as p redictory markers, and discusses the benefits and limitations of the approa ch of molecular testing of the malignancy. The efficacy and controversy aro und the option of prophylactic surgery for affected women is also discussed . Apparently, the most significant advantage of genetic testing is the incr eased awareness of women, of high-risk families and carriers of BRCA1 and/o r BRCA2 mutations, with the importance of periodic medical examination. Ana lysis of some recent data of breast/ovarian cancers among the female popula tion of Saudi Arabia shows low onset age, low frequency and diagnosis at la te stages of malignancy. The potential of molecular testing for diagnostic and counselling purposes in breast/ovarian cancers in this community is pre sented.