Breast cancer awareness and genetic testing importance in Vietnam

Breast cancer remains a leading malignancy among women globally. In Vietnam, more than 24,000 new cases are recorded annually, making it a primary cause of cancer-related mortality in women.

While most cases are not hereditary, approximately 5% to 10% are linked to genetic mutations. Testing for variants in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CHEK2, ATM, PTEN, and TP53 can identify high-risk individuals. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 1 in 400 people in the general population carry harmful BRCA1 or BRCA2 variants, with over 60% of women carrying these mutations estimated to develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

Medical experts emphasize that breast cancer can affect women as young as 30, often due to a lack of perceived risk. High-risk factors include a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), or previous chest radiation. Early detection through regular self-examinations and monitoring for symptoms—such as hard lumps, changes in breast shape, skin dimpling, or nipple discharge—is critical. Early-stage diagnosis can result in a five-year survival rate exceeding 90% and allows for less invasive treatment options.