General information for people with inherited mutations
Both men and women can carry a mutation in the gene.
People with an in have a very high lifetime risk for different types of cancers, as outlined in the Cancer Risk section. There are guidelines for screening and prevention for certain cancers in people with a mutation. There may also be clinical trials available. See our Risk Management section for more information about screening options in people with an inherited mutation.
People with an inherited mutation who have been diagnosed with cancer may qualify for specific treatment or clinical trials. Visit the Cancer Treatment section for more information.
Some mutations in cause or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome. Together these syndromes are known as Hamartoma Tumor syndrome (PHTS). See our Other Considerations section for more information about these disorders.
The name stands for "Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog." The gene is located on chromosome 10. helps control cell division.
Get Support
FORCE offers many peer support programs for people with inherited mutations.
- Our Message Boards allow people to connect with others who share their situation. Once registered, you can post on the Diagnosed With Cancer board to connect with other people who have been diagnosed.
- Our Peer Navigation Program will match you with a volunteer who shares your mutation and situation.
- Our moderated, private Facebook group allows you to connect with other community members 24/7.
- Check out our virtual and in-person support meeting calendar.
- Join one of our Zoom community group meetings.
updated: 08/06/2022
Related Resources
The following resources include information on mutations.
- FORCE video: Cancer Risks, Screening & Prevention for People w/ , , & Other Genes
- The Hamartoma Tumor Syndrome Foundation
updated: 03/17/2022