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I am a 48 year old female in good health. I have two kids. I exercise regularly.I found a lump on my left breast. Went to my obgyn doctor who scheduled me for a

By November 3, 2011 - 12:25pm
 
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diagnostic ultrasound and mamogram tomorrow (appt was 5 days ago). I am worried sick about this. My mom dies of ovarian cancer when she was 37. I have had no ovary issues. Should I be worried? Is there a link? what are teh chances that the lump is just some kind of benign cyst? thank you

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It is understandable that you would be anxious, especially with your mother dying of ovarian cancer, at such a young age.

The risk of developing either breast or ovarian cancer is linked to inherited mutations of the BRAC1 and BRAC2 genes. I found these facts for you on the National Cancer Institute website.

1) BRCA1 and BRCA2 are human genes that belong to a class of genes known as tumor suppressors. Mutation of these genes has been linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

2) A woman's risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer is greatly increased if she inherits a deleterious (harmful) BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation.

(3) Breast and ovarian cancer are components of several autosomal dominant cancer syndromes. The syndromes most strongly associated with both cancers are the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation syndromes.

It is very possible that the lump is a benign (non-cancerous) cysts. You are doing the right thing by having an ultrasound and mammogram done.

I will be thinking of you and praying that it is benign.

Maryann

November 3, 2011 - 2:56pm
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