New name for breast-cancer syndrome could help to save lives
The name, “hereditary breast and ovarian (HBOC) syndrome”, used for individuals with BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations, needs to be changed as it misleading. HBOC could be renamed King syndrome to recognize the seminal contributions of pioneering cancer geneticist Mary-Claire King, the discoverer of BRCA1.
All sexes have the same rate of BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation and are equally likely to pass these mutations to their children. Changing the name would increase awareness that BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are not limited to women
BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations are associated with a number of other cancers including prostate, pancreas and melanoma. A new name would raise awareness in men, especially those with metastatic prostate cancer, prompting more genetic testing with targeted therapy and better cancer awareness for family members.
Mary King
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