Question

Which of the following statements about breast cancer is true? a. Most women have a mutated form of either the BRCA1 or the BRCA2 gene. b. Post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy can reduce the risk of development of breast cancer. c. The risk of breast cancer declines with advancing age. d. Early onset of menstruation and/or late onset of menopause is a risk factor for the development of breast cancer.

Short answer

Statement D is true.

Step-by-step solution

- Analyzing Statement A

Statement A claims that most women have a mutated form of either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. This is incorrect because only a small percentage of women carry these mutations, though they significantly increase the risk of breast cancer if present.

- Analyzing Statement B

Statement B asserts that post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy can reduce the risk of breast cancer. This is untrue as hormone replacement therapy has been shown to increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

- Analyzing Statement C

Statement C suggests that the risk of breast cancer declines with advancing age. This is false; the risk of breast cancer generally increases with age.

- Analyzing Statement D

Statement D states that an early onset of menstruation and/or late onset of menopause is a risk factor for the development of breast cancer. This is correct because a longer duration of exposure to estrogen is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Key concepts

BRCA genes

BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are important when discussing breast cancer risks.
These genes help repair damaged DNA, which helps prevent the development of cancer.
However, mutations in these genes can lead to a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
It's important to note that only a small percentage of women carry these mutations.
If a woman does have a mutated BRCA gene, it significantly increases her risk of breast cancer.
Genetic testing can help identify these mutations early.

hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often used to relieve symptoms of menopause.
While HRT can be beneficial for managing menopausal symptoms, it has some risks.
Research has shown that post-menopausal HRT can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
The risk varies depending on the type of hormones used and the duration of the therapy.
It's crucial to discuss the benefits and risks of HRT with a healthcare provider.

age-related risk

Age is a significant risk factor for breast cancer.
Contrary to some misconceptions, the risk of breast cancer generally increases with age.
Most breast cancer cases are found in women over 50 years old.
Regular screening and mammograms become more important as women age.
Early detection can lead to more effective treatment.

menstruation and menopause

The timing of menstruation and menopause can impact breast cancer risk.
An early onset of menstruation and late onset of menopause are risk factors.
This is due to a longer lifetime exposure to estrogen, which can promote the development of breast cancer.
Women with a longer menstrual history should be aware of this increased risk.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular check-ups can help mitigate this risk.