Dr. Sadir Alrawi, cancer therapy conference Alzahra cancer center The Breast center for you

We are with you
The best cancer center in UAE
Alzahra cancer center
Alzahra hospital Dubai
Dr. Sadir Alrawi
Dr. Humaa Darr
Dr. Thamer Alkassab
July 2019

Cancer Survivors at Al Zahra Cancer Center
We are with you
The best cancer center in UAE
Alzahra cancer center
Alzahra hospital Dubai
Dr. Sadir Alrawi
Dr. Humaa Darr
Dr. Thamer Alkassab
May 2019

With Dr. Sadir Al Rawi and Dr. Muharrem OnerJune 2019

BRCA Gene screening test is a blood test that uses DNA analysis to identify if there is any mutation in the two breast cancer susceptibility genes – BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. Women who have mutations in these genes are probably at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, breast cancer and other type of cancer.

Female Surgeon UAE at Al Zahra Hospital has a team of highly skilled, board-certified oncologists and breast surgeons who conduct breast cancer screening in Dubai using the latest technologies. Our doctors combine their experience and technology to offer the best BRCA screening in Dubai.

What are BRCA 1 and BRCA 2?

BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 are the genes that produce tumor suppressor proteins. These proteins play a major role in repairing the damaged DNA. At the same time, they ensure that each cell of the genetic material is stable. When either of these genes is mutated or altered, they are unable to make enough of protein product or does not function properly thus failing to repair the damaged DNA. As a result, additional genetic alterations develop which further leads to cancer.

Inherited mutations in BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. A harmful BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation can be inherited from a person’s parents.

How much risk of breast cancer is involved in gene mutation?

About 72% of women who inherit harmful BCA 1 mutation and 69% of women who inherit harmful BRCA 3 mutation will likely develop breast cancer at the age of 80. These women are also at the high risk of developing a new primary cancer in the opposite breast in later years.

Are genetic tests available to detect BRCA 1 or BRCA 2 mutations?

While some tests look for specific harmful BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 mutation that has been identified in other family members. Other tests check for all of the harmful mutations in both genes. One thing, DNA is required for all of these tests. The sample is then sent to the laboratory. It usually takes about a month to receive the results.

What do the results mean?

• Positive Result – Positive result means the person has inherited the harmful mutation in BRCA 1 or BRCA 2. This means they are at an increased risk of developing certain cancers.
• Negative Result – A negative result is more difficult to understand than the positive one because the result is dependent on an individual’s family history of cancer and whether the mutation has been identified in the relative’s blood.
• Uncertain Result – Sometimes in the screening, a change is found in BRCA 2 or BRCA 2 that hasn’t been associated with cancer. This type of results is termed as “ambiguous” because it is uncertain whether the change is harmful or not.

Schedule an appointment with Female Surgeon UAE for BRCA screening in Dubai and receive the best healthcare from specialized doctors.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women both in developed and developing countries. Globally, there were over 2 million new cases of breast cancer in 2018. That’s why top breast cancer surgeons in Dubai and research experts recommend that women who are 40 to 49 years old should talk to their physician about their breast cancer screening options.

What is breast cancer screening?

Screening examinations are tests performed to find breast cancer before the person has any symptoms. The goal of undergoing screening tests is to detect the disease at its most treatable stage. When the symptoms begin to appear, the cancer has grown and starts to spread, making it harder to treat or cure. You should have a physical examination every 1 to 3 years starting at the age of 20 years, every year if you are aged 40 years or above and more frequently if you have a family history of breast cancer. What are the cancer screening tests that you should undergo before symptoms appear?

• Physical Examination: If you notice changes in breast size or shape, skin dimpling or skin changes or any lump during self-examination, you should contact your physician immediately. Your healthcare provider will ask you detailed questions about your family history, your health habits and past illnesses. He/she will examine your breasts for any lumps, rashes, dimpling, or redness as well as size, shape, or symmetry of your breasts. A physical examination is an important method of early detection of breast cancer.

• Laboratory Tests: What blood tests are done to detect breast cancer? Complete Blood Count (CBC) is used to determine the types of blood cells/abnormal cells in your body. Blood Marker Test is used to detect cancer activity; cancer cells produce specific protein in the blood that acts as a marker for the cancer. Other blood tests include BRCA1 / BRCA2, HER2 (blood) and Estrogen Receptor/Progesterone Receptor.

• Genetic Tests: Three most well-known genes that can mutate and increase the risk of cancer are BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2. The BRCA test is a blood test that analyzes mutations in one of the two breast cancer susceptibility genes (BRCA1/2). Mutation in the PALB2 gene is linked to hereditary breast cancer. Genetic counseling and these genetic tests are performed by well-renowned surgeons of Female Surgeon UAE, part of Al Zahra Cancer Center in Dubai. Schedule an appointment today if you have a family history of cancer.

• Mammograms: A mammogram is an X-Ray image of your breasts that can help doctors to identify cysts, tumor and cancer. A special X-Ray machine is used to take pictures using low dose X-Ray. A trained radiologist will read the mammogram to detect cancer or other problems.

• Breast MRIs: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses radio waves and magnets to get a detailed image of the inside of the breast. MRI is used for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. It is a safe procedure and does not expose you to harmful radiation. A breast MRI is used in addition to mammogram or other blood tests.

Diagnosing the cancer may not improve the person’s health or prevent it, but if found by screening tests, it will help doctors to treat it at an early stage and save your life. Al Zahra Cancer Center offers comprehensive cancer control by providing quality breast cancer screening services in Dubai as well as advanced treatment and after-care services. Call +971 551010169 to book an appointment now!