Breast Cancer Awareness Month
29 October 2025
Did you know, in the UK, there are approximately 55,900 new cases of breast cancer each year?
Genomic testing is helping us learn more about the factors that influence cancer risk. These developments can help guide personalised care for cancer patients, and can help prevent cancer in family members. By understanding the genetic underpinnings of breast cancer, we’re taking a significant step forward in the battle against this disease.
Here, Sara Trotman, Breast Care Nurse Specialist and Inherited Cancer Lead Nurse, South West Genomic Medicine Service, shares more about genomics and inherited breast cancer.
Along with fellow Lead Cancer Lead Nurse, Siobhan John, Sara is supporting mainstreaming and education across the south west for inherited breast cancer.
What are the genetic changes involved in breast cancer risk?
Changes in certain genes can significantly increase the risk of someone developing breast cancer. This includes genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, as well as other, more recently discovered breast cancer genes. The best-known breast cancer genes are BRCA1 and BRCA2 but there are actually a number of genes that can influence breast cancer risk. NHS testing now includes a panel of seven genes.
Gene changes are most likely to be present in people with a strong family history of breast (and ovarian) cancers. Families with a high-risk gene can access testing, extra screening, and other risk reducing measures. This is why genetic testing and counselling are so important.
Where can I find out more?
There are lots of useful websites and organisations dedicated to raising awareness of hereditary breast cancer. Find out more by visiting:
Introducing BReast CAncer genes and me
‘BReast CAncer Genes and Me’ is a digital patient empowerment project that’s set to transform the experience of people with a diagnosis of breast cancer that might have implications on other family members.
The project introduces the concept of genetic testing for breast cancer in an accessible format, presented as a six-part series of colourful animations. Each video features digestible information accompanied by gentle music and a clear voiceover that takes the participant through the process and implications of genetic testing.
This project has been developed as part of a Collaborative Working initiative between the South West Genomic Medicine Service Alliance and AstraZeneca UK, and has been co-designed by clinicians and patients alike, providing an overview of the genetic testing pathway from start to finish.
BReast CAncer Genes and Me aims to streamline the consent process for breast cancer genetic testing through a digital consent pathway, supporting patients and their families through every stage and guiding them to become confident decision-makers.
View the videos on our page here or on our YouTube channel here.