Majority of breast cancer do not have a hereditary component and for most women, their only risk is that they are of female gender.
 
Around 10% of all breast cancers are thought to be hereditary, meaning abnormal genes are passed from parent to a child.  Angelina Jolie has put the hereditary cancer into spotlight and people are now talking more and asking more questions about this risk, which is a good thing.
 
The common gene abnormalities associated with breast cancer are: BRCA1 and BRCA2, PTEN gene (causing Cowden syndrome), CDH1 gene (hereditary diffuse gastric cancer), p53 (Li-Fraumeni syndrome), STK11 gene, PALB2, ATM, ChEK2 and likely many others.
 
In Wellington region we use EviQ system to calculate person’s risk of breast cancer.  We also send a referral to Genetics team for calculation of the hereditary breast cancer risk and discussion whether or not genetic testing should be performed.  Genetic counselling is also performed by them and testing arranged.
 
All women who have family history of breast cancer and/or associated cancers should be referred either directly to genetic services by their general practitioners or to breast surgeons for assessment and genetic assessment.