Expert: Claes-Gustaf Nordquist, M.D. - 5/30/2007

Question
I would like to know my chances of getting breast or cervical cancer if both my mother and grandmother had one or the other or both?

also, if I have tested for mild dysplasia does this mean that cervical cancer is right around the corner so to speak? thank you

Answer
Cervical cancer is not much linked to genetic factors. In- stead it is very much linked with infection with the Human Papilloma Virus which is very widely spread and is also transmitted sexually (it also causes the common virus warts). Mild dysplasia does NOT mean that cervical cancer is around the corner but it is certainly a warning sign and such cases should be followed up! A Human Papilloma Virus vaccine is now available. Breast cancer is another matter! There genetic factors certainly do play a role to a rather large extent! However statstics are for vast numbers of cases not really for a single case like you, so I'm not prepared to just use statistical probability numbers in your case! But if both your mother & grandmother had breast cancer we must consider your risk as significantly increased and you should start to have regular breast check ups (at least once a year) starting early  - in your 30ies at least! These check ups should include mammography, ultrasound & MRI breast scans and needle or surgical biopsies whenever anything unclear or suspicious is seen! I do hope this answers your question. If you have children these genetic consequencies may concern them too.