Cancer risk associated with inherited ATM mutations

If you have tested positive for an ATM mutation, we recommend that you speak with a genetics expert who can look at your personal and family history of cancer and can help you choose the best plan for managing your cancer risk.

Breast cancer risk

Women with an ATM mutation have an increased risk of breast cancer. The estimated lifetime risk of breast cancer is as high as 40 percent. A woman's risk may vary depending on her specific ATM mutation. 

Pancreatic cancer risk

People with an ATM mutation have an increased risk for pancreatic cancer. The estimated lifetime risk is 5-10%. 

Ovarian cancer risk

Ovarian cancer risk is slightly elevated for people with an inherited ATM mutation.The estimated lifetime risk is about 3%, compared to about 1.3% for the general population.

Risk for other cancers

Some research has suggested that ATM mutations may also increase the risk for the following cancers:

• prostate
• melanoma
• other cancers   

Research on the cancer risks in people with ATM mutations is ongoing but not yet conclusive. More research is needed to better define the lifetime risks for other cancers in people with an ATM mutation. For this reason, genetics experts often look at a family’s history of cancer to help people with ATM mutations understand their risk for additional cancers.