Nina Bosch, a genetic counselor at Atrys, has been counseling cancer patients for more than 15 years. Now at the Institut d'Oncologia Avançada (IOA), Atrys and Sanitas center specialized in comprehensive cancer treatment, and at IMOR, Atrys radiation oncology treatment center, both located in Barcelona, it offers genetic analysis services as a fundamental tool to improve the treatment of cancer patients and prevention in healthy people.
Genetics plays a fundamental role in breast cancer. It influences the detection, monitoring, prophylaxis and treatment in women who have certain genetic mutations. These genetic alterations can significantly increase the risk of developing this type of cancer. These alterations can be passed from generation to generation and predispose people to developing breast cancer at an early age.
Genetic analysis in cancer patients is crucial to identify hereditary genetic predisposition. At IOA we have a multidisciplinary committee, made up of all the medical specialists involved in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer (medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, pathologists...) that includes genetic counseling. In this way, we study each case individually to offer each patient a personalized and precision treatment.
Genetic analysis in cancer patients is essential to identify hereditary genetic predisposition. This can have a significant impact on cancer management, as scientific evidence allows us to offer more effective treatments for women carrying mutations in certain genes. Furthermore, these genetic risk factors can predispose to a second tumor independent of the first. Thanks to this information, we plan tailored follow-up for each patient, through imaging and molecular techniques, in order to achieve early detection and the application of preventive measures. By knowing a patient's specific genetics, we can further personalize her therapeutic approach, which can help prevent relapses and improve her quality of life.
We recommend proactively requesting genetic testing for those with a family history of breast cancer. This will allow them to know their genetic risk, adjust their medical follow-up to facilitate early detection, even before symptoms of disease appear, and, if necessary, take appropriate preventive measures.
It is also important to detect who does not share the genetic risk factor in the family in order to avoid overexposure to mammograms from a very young age if it is not justified.
In summary, genetic testing can help both patients with breast cancer and those at risk of developing it. At IOA and IMOR we are committed to providing our patients with the necessary tools for personalized care and effective prevention through our multidisciplinary team highly specialized in hereditary cancer.
