RAD51C Gene Mutations: Cancer Risk
Cancer Risks Associated with an Inherited Mutation
If you have tested positive for a RAD51C mutation, we recommend consulting with a genetics expert who can assess your personal and family history of cancer and can help you decide on a plan to manage your risk.
Experts at the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) created guidelines which estimate the cancer risks for people with RAD51C mutations. These cancer risk estimates are updated based on the latest research.
It is important to note that cancer risks are estimates over the course of a person's lifetime. Your lifetime risk and risk over the next five years will vary depending on:
- current age
- gender
- specific mutation
- personal and family health history
- diet, exercise, lifestyle and other factors
Breast cancer
- Women with a RAD51C mutation have about a 20 percent lifetime risk for breast cancer. Women in the general population have about a 12.5 percent risk.
- More research is needed to understand the risk for a new breast cancer diagnosis in women with RAD51C mutations who have had breast cancer and have not had double mastectomies. Some data suggests that the risk for a new breast cancer diagnosis within 10 years is very low (less than 2%) - similar to women without a mutation.
Ovarian, and primary peritoneal cancer
Women with a RAD51C mutation have about a 10-15 percent lifetime risk for ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer (these three cancers and their risks are related and are often referred to together as ovarian cancer).
Other cancer risks for people with a RAD51C mutation
There is not yet enough research to conclude that a RAD51C mutation is associated with an increased risk of other cancers. However, there is a approved for treating prostate cancer in people with a RAD51C mutation found in their tumor. Research on the risk for cancer in people with RAD51C mutations is ongoing.
Participate in Research
Inherited Cancer Registry (ICARE): Contribute to Research While Staying Informed
ICARE is a registry of individuals interested in participating in inherited cancer research, through which data and samples are collected...
This study is looking at whether removal of the fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) followed by removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy) at...