[Genetic counseling in familial breast cancer]

Abstract

It is currently estimated that 25-30% of all breast cancers have a familial background. The breast cancer lifetime risk of first degree relatives with a family history of breast cancer may be classified as slightly, moderately or highly increased above the population risk. Individuals from families with a highly increased risk for breast cancer should be offered genetic counselling and testing. Here, the elements of genetic counselling and testing and the management of families with a highly increased breast and ovarian risk will be discussed.