Risk Assessment Models
Cancer geneticsThe study of how traits get passed from one generation to the next. professionals use a number of risk assessment models to figure out your risk. Some models are only for female patients. Most models are limited because they use different risk factors (e.g. environmental, family history) to calculate risk. However, scientists do not have enough information about eating habits and lifestyle to include these factors in a cancer risk model.
Which of these models is best to use to find your cancer risk? Doctors and genetic counselorsHealth professional with specialized degrees and experience in the area of medical genetics and counseling. Her job is to help patients decide if they want to get genetic testing. know how to choose the right model to address your specific risk factors for cancer.
Gail Model
A program that uses personal and family history to estimate a woman's chance of developing breast cancer.The Gail model is for women over age 35. The Gail model calculates risk for Caucasian, African American and Hispanic/Latina women.
The risk factors included in the model are:
- Current age
- Age at first menstrual period
- Age at first live birth
- Number of breast biopsies and results
- Number of first-degree relativesMom, dad, siblings, children. with breast cancer
The Gail model has some important limitations. It does not consider the presence of breast cancer in second-degree relativesGrandparents, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins., paternalHaving to do with the father, or from the father's side of the family. breast cancer history, or ovarian cancer events in the family history. Recent modifications of the Gail model have allowed for calculation of risk for African American and Hispanic/Latina women.
Claus Model
A model that uses statistics to predict a person's risk for developing cancer based on family history.Claus generated a model to assess the age-specific riskHow your age affects the chance that an event will take place. of developing breast cancer in women who have at least one female relative with breast cancer. This model may be more appropriate than the Gail model in predicting risk of breast cancer in women with very large family histories of the disease.
Couch Model
A model that uses statistics to estimate the likelihood of a BRCA1 change in women.The Couch model figures out a woman's risk for a BRCA1A gene on chromosome 17 that normally helps to suppress cell growth. A person who inherits a mutated BRCA1 gene has a higher risk of getting breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer. and/or a BRCA2A gene on chromosome 13 that normally helps to suppress cell growth. A person who inherits a mutated BRCA2 gene has a higher risk of getting breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer. mutationA permanent change that affects genes.. The Couch model uses family history for firstMom, dad, siblings, children. and non-directiveWhen the counselor or other professional gives you the chance to talk freely.-degree relatives with breast and/or ovarian cancer, and family size.
BRCAPro
Software that is used for genetic counseling with women who are at risk for breast and ovarian cancer.BRCAPro figures out if a family carries BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 mutations.