Family History of Cancer + the KRAS-Variant

FAMILY HISTORY OF CANCER + THE KRAS-VARIANT

The KRAS-variant is a genetic cause for cancer in many families with strong cancer histories.

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The KRAS-variant is emerging as a hereditary explanation for a significant proportion of familial cancers that were previously unexplained.

Importantly, the KRAS-variant is NOT a KRAS mutation in a cancerous tumor. KRAS mutations in a tumor are not inherited. You can learn more about the difference between the KRAS-variant and KRAS mutations here.

BRCA is the most well-known and commonly tested genetic varitant for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) families. However, BRCA variants are incredibly rare, found in only 0.25% of the population.24

The KRAS-variant, in contrast, is found in 6-10% of the population, making it 20x more common than BRCA genetic variants.1

However, unlike BRCA variants, those with the KRAS-variant can reduce their risk by making certain healthcare and lifestyle choices, like taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) from perimenopause on.7

 

The KRAS-variant is an inherited genetic variant associated with breast cancer,3 ovarian cancer,2 lung cancer,1 as well as other cancers,5,6 and multiple cancers in the same individual.4,7

Should you get tested for the KRAS-variant?

If you have a family history of breast, ovarian or lung cancer, learning whether you have the KRAS-variant can help you make the important decision about whether or not HRT is right for you.

Learn more about why and how to get tested here.

graphic that states: Hormone Replacement Therapy reduces the risk of cancer for women with the KRAS-variant
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The world of genetics and medicine continues to evolve. Education is one of the foundations of MiraKind. We will provide you regular updates in an easily digestible format.

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Disclaimer

Any discussion of medical management options on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute a medical recommendation. All medical management decisions should be made based on consultation between each patient and his or her healthcare professional.

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