When Angelina Jolie had a double mastectomy on learning she had the BCRA gene in 2013, which increase the likelihood of developing cancer, the world applauded. It was both a terrifying thought - that more of us could carry this mutation- and relieving, knowing that we could be tested and pro-actively do something about it.
However, new research suggests that unlike previously thought, young women treated for breast cancer who carry the BRCA gene are not less likely to survive than those without them.
The study also showed that a double mastectomy after diagnosis with this type of breast cancer did not improve survival over 10 years. Those with the BRCA mutation were equally likely to survive the two, five and 10-year mark as those without the mutation.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are said to increase the risk of breast cancer by four-to-eightfold, also increasing the risk of ovarian and prostate cancer.
In the study, 12% of the 2,733 women treated for breast cancer at 127 hospitals across the UK (between 2000 and 2008) had a BRCA mutation. These women were aged between 18 and 40, tracked for up to 10 years by The Lancet Oncology){href='http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(17)' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer'}.
Over the course of this period, 651 women died from breast cancer, with the study showing that those with the BRCA mutation were equally likely to have survived the first 10 years as those without. Around one third of those with the mutation chose to have a double mastectomy, but the surgery did not appear to improve chances of survival at the 10-year mark.
The result of this study suggests that women have more time than previously thought to decide on treatment. Professor Diana Eccles, the study’s author from the University of Southampton, said:
‘Women diagnosed with early breast cancer who carry a BRCA mutation are often offered double mastectomies soon after their diagnosis or chemotherapy treatment. However, our findings suggest that this surgery does not have to be immediately undertaken along with the other treatment.’
Since a double mastectomy is thought to be a rather radical treatment, these results are thought to reassure young women that there are other options than immediately needing to remove both breasts. She added:
‘In the longer term, risk-reducing surgery should be discussed as an option for BRCA1 mutation carriers in particular, to minimise their future risk of developing a new breast or ovarian cancer.
‘Decisions about timing of additional surgery to reduce future cancer risks should take into account patient prognosis after their first cancer, and their personal preferences.’
Although the results do not apply to older women, those between 18 and 40 can rest assured that there is more time to decide on the best course of treatment.
Click through to see the best beauty buys for Breast Cancer Awareness month...
The Best Beauty Buys For Breast Cancer Awareness Month
1 of 8Limited Edition Supersize Skin Bliss Capsules, £99
These handy little capsules are a 2-month supply of antioxidant-rich day and night facial oils to help to improve the visible signs of ageing whilst breaking down skin-clogging toxins. The morning capsule helps nourish and soften skin with Rose Absolute, while the evening capsule is infused with soothing Lavender to help repair and protect skin overnight. £10 of the retail purchase price will go to Breast Cancer Now, but regardless of sales, ELEMIS has pledged to donate a minimum of £33,000 to Breast Cancer Now to take the stand against cancer.
2 of 8Trinny London, Lip 2 Cheek in Sherin, £25
The newest member of the Trinny tribe, and in turn the latest Lip2Cheek shade, is Sherin, and 10% of every sale of the Lip2Cheek shade (and others across the range) will be donated to Sherin's chosen charity, Breast Cancer Now, who supported her on her own personal journey. Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Friday 1st October – Sunday 31st October), Trinny London will also be offering one-to-one virtual appointments to those receiving cancer treatment, with the aim of sharing the best products, tips and tricks as their skin adapts to treatment – whether it's increased sensitivity, redness or sparse brows.
3 of 8GHD Gold Hair Straightener in Rose Pink, £149
For another year, GHD are campaigning to raise awareness of the importance of self-checking, and are supporting breast cancer charities with their Take Control Now collection, including the GHD gold hair straightener in limited edition rose pink. Expect the brands salon quality, sleek results from with two next-generation heat sensor plates, without extreme heat.
4 of 8Carolina Herrera, Pink October Range, From £15.50
Carolina Herrera have launched not one product, but an entire range, 'A Touch of Love' for Pink October, a new initiative to help support and raise awareness around breast cancer around the world. 10% of the proceeds from the edit (including fragrances and makeup refills) will go to the Spanish Association Against Cancer (AECC), which offers free services for patients and families affected by cancer.
5 of 8Scientia, Limited Edition Pure Clarity Targeted Blemish Paste, £16
This year Scientia are launching an exclusive new product in partnership with the Pink Ribbon Foundation, revamped with Limited Edition pink packaging and a special kind of Zinc Oxide to make the formula pink too. The blemish paste not only reduces redness but works to prevent budding blemishes too. But its only available for a limited time, and with 100% of proceeds going to the charity, there's no better reason not to snap this up now.
6 of 8Ann Summers, My Viv Massage Candle Bergamot, £20
With 10% of profits going to Breast Cancer Now, this relaxing lavender and amber candle is the ultimate in self gifting, creating a 'sensual' and relaxing atmosphere for you to enjoy, and helping to contribute towards cancer research and care.
7 of 8Elemental Herbology, Calm & Soothe Collection, £50
Elemental Herbology has partnered with The Pink Ribbon Foundation to create a Limited Edition gift collection, with £5 from each Calm & Soothe Collection kit sold, helping to relieve the needs of people who are suffering from or have been affected by breast cancer. Each gift set contains a Breast Self-Check Guide, Antioxidant Hydration Mist, Neroli & Rose Damask Body Cream and Aromatherapy Candle, designed to calm the mind and soothe the skin with with a gentle blend of rose damask, neroli and chamomile.
8 of 8Kevin Murphy, Plumping Wash, £24
This October, haircare brand KEVIN.MURPHY are standing up to Breast Cancer with their MORE THAN PINK kit. Including the ultra voluminsing Plumping Wash, Plumping Rinse, and Session Spray Flex, for every kit sold, KEVIN.MURPHY will donate £1 to CoppaFeel!,
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