Breast cancer is the most common invasive cancer diagnosed in women in Ireland, and breast cancers related to a familial risk can arise at a younger age than in the general population.
The HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) established a Hereditary Cancer Programme in 2012 in response to advances in diagnostics and an increasing demand for services. St. James’s Hospital and Crumlin Children’s Hospital provide risk assessment, genetic counselling and genetic testing services for patients with a possible cancer predisposition gene, including the BRCA (BReast CAncer) gene.
The majority of referrals to this service are healthy individuals concerned about their genetic predisposition to cancer. Those who are tested and found to carry a gene mutation are offered strategies to reduce their risk. Depending on the type of cancer, this may involve surveillance, drug treatment, surgery, or a combination of these.
Furthermore, the NCCP has established a Family History of Breast Cancer working group. The aim of this working group is to develop a standardised national approach to the management of people who have a family history of breast cancer. This will include referral from primary care, assessment of the patients’ individual risk based on their family history, and a recommended surveillance schedule.
With regards to the BreastCheck screening programme, it is important to emphasise that screening is for healthy people who do not have symptoms. People who are between screening appointments, or who are waiting for a rescheduled appointment, are aware of symptoms, or if they have concerns or worries, are advised to contact their GP, who will arrange appropriate follow-up care.