MRI screening for BRCA1 mutation carriers tied to lower breast cancer mortality
But more research is needed to determine whether BRCA2 carriers see the same benefit, doctors say.
Women with the BRCA1 pathogenic variant are 80% less likely to die from breast cancer if they undergo MRI surveillance, according to an international team of oncologists and geneticists.
The researchers said their findings, published in JAMA Oncology, supported recommendations to offer MRI screening to women over 30 with the BRCA1 mutation.
However, they stressed it was unclear if the cancer mortality benefit extended to those with the BRCA2 pathogenic variant as well.
Australian guidelines recommend annual MRI screening for BRCA mutation carriers starting from ages 25-30 up until 60, with additional yearly mammograms from 40 years.
