ஐ.எஸ்.எஸ்.என்: ISSN: 2157-7412
Abdulkareem IH
This is a literature review of the aetilogy and pathogenesis of breast cancer, which is the most common cancer worldwide, and the second leading cause of cancer death, especially in Western countries. Several aetiological factors have been implicated in its pathogenesis, and include age, genetics, family history, diet, alcohol, obesity, lifestyle, physical inactivity, as well as endocrine factors. Although the roles of BRCA1, BRCA2 and HER-2/neu antigens is well established in the aetiology of breast cancer, recent evidence has shed more light on triple negative breast cancer (with absence of BRCA1, BRCA2 and HER-2/neu antigens), which has a worse prognosis and is associated with certain patient characteristics. Knowledge of these factors is important in identifying high risk groups and individuals, which will help in screening, early detection, and follow-up. This will help to decrease the morbidity and mortality from this life-threatening disease.