By Daniel I. Wasserman, M.D.
October is when American cities will begin adorning public landmarks with the signature pink color for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. While October and May are Breast Cancer and Melanoma Awareness Months respectively, few people are aware of the relationship between these two cancers.
It is well known to the public and professional communities that cancer can run in families. As science continues to march forward, we are able understand these genetic patterns more and more. The most well-known association between breast cancer and genetics are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Angelina Jolie famously brought light to this when she opted for a double mastectomy when she tested positive for BRCA1 so that she could avoid the fate of her mother who passed away from breast cancer. These mutations are rare in the general population with a rate of 1 in 400 to 1 in 800 people in the U.S. Some groups, however, such as Ashkenazi Jews, have a much higher rate at 1 in 40. So, you can see why family history is so important in understanding breast cancer risk.
What few people in the public know are that these BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations also confer an increased risk with both skin and retinal melanoma (BRCA2 for the latter). Data for BRCA2 suggests a 2.6 increased risk for melanoma in this population of individuals, while the data on BRCA1 is less clear. In regards to melanoma risk, official recommendations for individuals with known mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are to have annual skin and eye exams with board-certified dermatologists and ophthalmologists respectively and to notify them of your genetic risk factors. Hopefully during this year’s breast cancer awareness month, we can identify friends and loved ones who may benefit from this knowledge pearl.
Daniel I. Wasserman, MD
Fellowship-trained Laser and
Cosmetic Dermatologist
Fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Wasserman is a board certified dermatologist with fellowship training at Harvard Medical School in laser and cosmetic surgery, as well as fellowship training in Mohs skin cancer surgery. He has contributed as a dermatology expert for online and print magazines. In addition, he frequently lectures to professional societies and organizations on his diverse research. For more information about skin care visit the Skin Wellness Physicians website at www.skinwellnessflorida.com
239.732.0044
www.SkinWellnessFiorida.com