Male relatives of female BRCA carriers also at risk of developing prostate cancer

Men whose mothers, sisters or daughters test positive for BRCA 1 and/or 2 - the breast cancer causing gene mutations - have an increased risk of developing the disease but are often unaware of that risk.  These men face a 14 percent lifetime risk of developing prostate cancer as well as a 6 percent lifetime risk of developing male breast cancer .

Much time and effort is spent advising and counseling females and their female relatives but little or no time spent with male relatives.

Male blood relatives of BRCA gene carriers should speak to their physicians about organizing a regular prostate screen and a breast physical examination.

Elaine Warburton