A new program is coming soon to London, England that will test cancer patients for almost 100 risk genes, according to BBC News. The test will include genes like the mutated BRAC1 gene that caused Angelina Jolie to have a double mastectomy.
The test’s findings will allow doctors to find which drugs should be used in certain cases. It will also help in determining the amount of tissue—surrounding a specific tumor—that must be removed.
In addition it is expected to identify patients who are at great risk for developing other types of cancer.
The testing will occur at the Institute of Cancer Research and The Royal Marsden hospital in London.
"It is very important to know if a mutation in a person's genetic blueprint has caused their cancer,” said Lead Investigator Prof. Nazeen Rahman.
"It allows more personalized treatment, so for example such people are often at risk of getting another cancer and may choose to have more comprehensive surgery, or may need different medicines, or extra monitoring."
For instance, a patient may have colon cancer and the test proves that person is at risk to develop more colon cancer in the future. Based on this information, that person may choose to remove a big section of their bowel instead of just the dangerous tumor.
According to the health section of the BBC news website, “Around 2% of all cancers are down to such genetic changes,” but that percentage varies based on the type of cancer. Having a family history of other types of cancers can also be a factor.
According to the American Cancer Society, “Having a family member with breast cancer can increase your risk of ovarian cancer. And women who have colon cancer in their families may have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, too.”
Tests are expected to begin with ovarian and breast cancer patients by 2014.
