Toronto, Canada – A new study suggests that removal of the ovaries in women carrying BRCA1 mutation can reduce their chances of getting breast cancer. The JAMA Oncology published the new research paper suggesting that if women with BRCA1 mutation removed their ovaries, their overall chances of getting breast cancer could be reduced by 62%.
The process of removal of the ovaries is termed as oophorectomy. Earlier researchers had declared that the presence of both the BRCA1 and the BRCA2 gene mutation increased the risk of breast cancer by 70%. Once a woman is diagnosed with, breast cancer, the risk of ovarian cancer also multiplies in women with BRCA gene mutation.
Nine women who did not undergo oophorectomy died of ovarian cancer whereas most of the women underwent oophorectomy six years after they were diagnosed with breast cancer. According to the researchers, women with breast cancer should undergo oophorectomy right after the diagnosis. Removal of the ovaries at the earlier stage of breast cancer detection reduces the risk of spread of cancer largely.
Contribution of Angelina Jolie in Creating Awareness
Angelina Jolie, the Hollywood actor and director boldly accepted in the public about having undergone a double mastectomy to cut down the cancer risk. She was diagnosed with being BRCA gene mutation carrier and chose to face the surgical removal of her breasts to lead a healthy and fit life. Just recently, she has also said that she underwent removal of ovaries to reduce the chances of ovarian and breast cancer both.
Ever since Angelina Jolie has admitted to having these surgeries, there has been an increase in demand for BRCA gene mutation testing. Thus, she has contributed extensively to creating awareness about breast and cancer risks and the importance of BRCA gene mutation in every woman.
However, according to the editor-in-chief of JAMA Oncology, Mary L. Disis, removal of ovaries immediately after the diagnosis of breast cancer do not reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in women with BRCA2 gene mutation.
