October 2017 www.womanthismonth.com LIFESTYLE | wellbeing 56 October turns the spotlight to breast cancer the world over, when women – young and old – are reminded of the importance of early detection and to strengthen their resolve to live healthy. This is also the time to increase our awareness about this, unfortunately, all too familiar disease and keep ourselves abreast of ways to prevent it. Breast Cancer Related to Inherited Genetics When international celebrity Angelina Jolie declared some years ago that she had opted for a double mastectomy (removal of both breasts) after testing positive for BRCA1 And BRCA2 gene mutations, she was at the receiving end of judgement – good and bad. The news raised a lot of questions about genetic testing and counselling related to this type of cancer. Dr Ahmed Alalawi, who runs Biolab in Bahrain, took time out to clarify the basics for us. A specialist in molecular pathology and genetics, he has facilitated DNA sequencing for BRCA1 and 2 genes to be tested right here on the island. “Through genetic testing, women now have the opportunity to know more about their body type. Unlike before, it’s easy and not too expensive. The test results enable women to make important life choices,” he says. He explains: “The mammary glands in the breast are very active glands. The rate of multiplication of cells here is very high. Each cell makes copies of all its genes, then splits into two with one set of genes in each new cell, going from one to two, to four and so on.” He goes on to say that the BRCA1 and 2 genes are the ‘eyes’ that check for any abnormalities in cell replication. They are tumour suppressors that keep cells from growing and dividing too rapidly. “When there is a problem, or mutation, in these genes, cells multiply uncontrolled, leading to cancerous tumours,” he says. The expert recommends that anyone with a strong family history of breast cancer on the maternal side must get their BRCA1 and 2 genes tested for mutation. “Genetic testing can facilitate preventive action for developing breast cancer. A patient may have a problem with either one of the genes, or both of them. The degree of risk varies, depending on the extent of the mutation,” he says. “If a patient is relatively young and at high risk, we suggest that after they have their children, they go in for elective mastectomy to greatly reduce their breast cancer risk,” he continues. Genes are made of a substance called DNA. They contain information to build and maintain cells in the body. DNA determines your physical characteristics – like blood type, eye and hair colour, etc., that are passed over the generations. Genetic testing can foretell the risks of developing certain diseases. Dr Alalawi justifies this seemingly harsh and aggressive step, saying: “Women in this part of the world attach too much importance to their feminine form, even though it may be a risk to their life. What they must realise is that they can be around for their families for a long time to come if they go in for elective mastectomy. And these days, reconstructive surgery is an excellent option, available at Salmaniya Hospital, enabling patients to look and feel absolutely normal. I have seen several women opting for this procedure – sadly many of them are ones who have actually tasted the early loss of a dear one to breast cancer and don’t want their own children and families to face the same pain. Of course, spouses and families need Thanks to the advances in genetics and research, women can find out if they are at a higher risk of breast cancer and act to take control of their future health and wellbeing, writes Behnaz Sanjana. Your Health in Your Hands
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