Is breast cancer hereditary? Clear answers and guidance on hereditary risk
Is breast cancer hereditary?
Some cases of breast cancer have a hereditary cause, but the majority do not. Approximately 5 to 10 percent of all cases are caused by a congenital genetic predisposition; the remaining cases are non-hereditary (also known as “sporadic”). Are you unsure about heredity in your family, or do you want to know what this means for you? At Mauro, you’ll receive independent, personalized support alongside your hospital care—calm, clear, and tailored to your situation.
What is hereditary breast cancer?
In hereditary breast cancer, the risk of developing breast cancer is increased by a defect (mutation) in the DNA that can be passed down through families. Well-known genes include BRCA1 and BRCA2, but PALB2, CHEK2, and ATM may also play a role. A hereditary predisposition means an increased risk, not a certainty that you will develop breast cancer. The exact risks vary by gene and by person.
When is it a good idea to consider the possibility of a genetic cause?
There are signs that may indicate a genetic predisposition: a family history of breast cancer at a young age, multiple close relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, breast cancer in both breasts, a male relative with breast cancer, or a combination with other types of cancer, such as ovarian or prostate cancer. Do any of these apply to you? If so, DNA testing through a clinical geneticist may be advisable.
DNA testing: what do the results say?
A positive result (a mutation has been found) means that your risk is elevated and that targeted screening or preventive options may be considered. A negative result does not always completely rule out heredity; sometimes there is familial clustering without a known mutation. Sometimes a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) is found; in that case, further interpretation is needed. Mauro helps you understand the results and translate them into practical choices.
What can you do if you are at increased risk?
Depending on your age, genetic factors, and personal preferences, the hospital may recommend more intensive screening (such as an MRI in combination with a mammogram) or, in some cases, risk-reducing surgery. Lifestyle factors also play a supporting role. Mauro will discuss the medical options with you, as well as what this means for your daily life, work, family, and future.
Heredity affects the whole family
Any genetic predisposition identified may also be relevant for daughters, sisters, sons, and brothers. Careful consideration is needed when deciding together whom to inform, the right time to do so, and the practical approach. We are here to help you with this. When necessary, the clinical geneticist will conduct cascade testing within the family. Men with a BRCA mutation also require tailored advice; we will explicitly address this.
The desire to have children and the future
If you have a known genetic predisposition, you may have questions about pregnancy and future children. These might include the timing of treatments, breastfeeding, or, in specific situations, options such as PGT (preimplantation genetic testing). We will provide you with clear guidance on the process and refer you to specialists when necessary.
How can Mauro help you with this?
You’ll be assigned a dedicated point of contact who understands your situation and works with you—not just once, but for as long as you need. We:
explain genetic test results and risks in an understandable way;
help you prepare for appointments at the hospital or with the clinical geneticist;
weighing the pros and cons of screening and preventive options;
We’ll continue to support you as your situation or needs change.
We offer psychological support in the form of time, attention, and guidance; when appropriate, we’ll bring in psychologists from our network. Sessions can take place at our office or at your home.
Meet our specialists
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Diederik Visser
Director & Co-founder
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Leonard Bokhorst
Radiation Oncologist & Co-founder
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Max Peters
Radiation oncologist
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Tanja Oostergo
Medical Oncologist
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Berdine Heesterman
Medical Scientific Advisor
Would you like personalized advice regarding your situation?
Please feel free to contact us to schedule an introductory meeting. We’ll listen to your needs, work with you to find the best solutions, and guide you every step of the way.