Christina Applegate, best known for her role as Al Bundy’s daughter in the hit TV series Married, With Children and now as the star of Samantha Who?, faces reconstructive breast surgery this month and has stated that she carries the BRCA1 gene. Applegate was diagnosed with breast cancer in March. She underwent a double mastectomy in July. Applegate’s mother also had breast cancer. Applegate has disclosed that she carries the BRCA1 gene, which also puts her at risk for the development of ovarian cancer.

The BRCA1 gene has had over 1,000 mutations identified. Many of these mutations are associated with a higher risk of cancer, especially breast cancer in women. Having the BRCA1 gene does not guarantee that a woman will get breast cancer, but it makes her more likely than other women to get it, with an estimated risk of developing breast cancer of 50-80%.

Having the BRCA1 gene also increases the risk of developing ovarian cancer. As many as 2 out of 3 women will develop ovarian cancer by the age of 75 if they carry the BRCA1 gene. Women who carry the gene may be advised to have their ovaries removed, as ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect and treat.

Christina Applegate is living proof that early detection and a positive attitude go a long way.

Related Links:

Video: Breast Cancer Screening from illumistream

Breast Cancer Genes from Cancer Research UK

Breast Cancer (BRCA) Gene Test from Web MD