Experts talk about ‘cancer in the family’

Arizona Cancer Center oncologists held a public program Saturday focusing on “Cancer in the Family” and what family members should know about reducing their risk.

Focusing on hereditary risk factors associated with breast cancer, Dr. Christina Laukaitis said women of Ashkenazi Jewish heritage, those with a personal or family history of ovarian cancer, any first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50, a personal or family history of cancer in both breasts and/or a family member with a known mutation in a breast cancer gene should be screened regularly.

“There are more support groups for those who have had cancer than for those at high risk,” Laukaitis said. However, the Arizona Cancer Center offers genetic counseling and a high-risk breast cancer prevention clinic with a team approach that includes a dietitian and psychiatrists for those with high anxiety about their risk.

Dr. Julie Lang stressed the importance of screening, noting it reduces mortality rates, is inexpensive and is transferable to other medical facilities.

At 40, a woman should have a mammogram every year. Those at high risk should also have an annual MRI.

“MRIs are more likely to detect cancer than a mammogram but may miss certain types of breast cancers, therefore women at high risk should have an annual mammogram and MRI,” Lang said.

She commented that like all U.S. Comprehensive Cancer Centers, the high-risk oncology team at the Arizona Cancer Center supports the American Cancer Society recommendations for screenings and not the U.S. Preventative Service Task Force recommendations.

Risk of colon cancer

Colon cancer also has familial risk factors to be aware of and colonoscopies can detect early stage polyps before they may develop into a malignant tumor.

Dr. Eugene Trowers said those at high risk include persons diagnosed with colon cancer prior to age 50, uterine/endometrial cancer prior to age 50, first-degree relatives or other family members (grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins) diagnosed with colorectal cancer before age 50, colon polyps in combination with unusual skin findings and family members with a known mutation in a colon cancer gene.

Benefits of exercise

Jennifer Bea, Ph.D. said there is convincing evidence that physical activity decreases the risk of colon cancer, probable evidence that exercise reduces breast and endometrial cancer but limited evidence that it reduces risk for lung and pancreatic cancers.

“Those at highest risk for colon cancer include physical inactivity and a high Body Mass Index... Lifestyle and physical activity can modify risk for at-risk people,” Bea said.

To schedule an appointment for genetic counseling call Jessica Ray or Gail Martino at the Arizona Cancer Center at 520-694-0800.

To schedule an appointment with a professional at the high-risk breast cancer prevention clinic at UMC North call 520-694-CURE.

UMC and the Arizona Cancer Center offer a range of cancer support groups. For information: www.azcc.arizona.edu

Contact Green Valley freelance reporter Ellen Sussman at ellen2414@cox.net.