The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which have typically been associated with breast and ovarian cancer, are proving to be important in the prostate cancer space, too, said Leonard G. Gomella, MD, FACS, director of the Kimmel Cancer Center Network and chair of the department of urology at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University. 

While the genes do not seem to actually cause cancer, patients with prostate cancer who have BRCA mutations tend to have more aggressive disease, making it even more important for providers to better understand the genetic makeup of the disease.

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Genetic mutations that were previously associated with breast and ovarian cancer also have implications for men with prostate cancer.

Leonard Gomella, MD, FACS

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Understanding Prostate Cancer Mutations Is Critical