This book examines a fearsome disease that srikes one in eight women in the United States. A diagonosis of breast cancer is the medical pronouncement that a woman is most likely to fear. it kills more thatn 40,000 Americans annually.
Why are some women more vulnerable than others? The interplay between genetics and enviroment is suspected. In this book, Barbara T. Zimmerman, a scientist whose background is in cellular and molecular biology, helps general readers understand the genetic bases of both sporadic and inherieted breast cancers. In clear, concise language she guides the reader through the complexities, discussing in detail the genes that are known to increase susceptibility and the ways they are passed on.
The issues of risk, prevention, screening, diagonsis, therapy, and genetic testing and counseling are covered too. Dr. Zimmerman concludes with a comprehensive analysis of current research and with an emphasis on how a women's understanding of inherited breast cancer can help doctors seeking to design better methods for prevention and therapy.
