More at Risk?

[Wendy123]

Is it correct that if you have had breast cancer then you are more susceptible to skin cancer?

[Dr Juber Hafiji]

Hi Wendy,
Yes you are absolutely correct.
Women who are BRCA2 gene positive are twice as likely to get melanoma than those women with breast cancer without the mutation. The precise reasons for the increased risk is not fully understood.
Therefore, regular skin surveillance and taking appropriate sun protection measures are important.
Useful resources are: www.bad.org and www.dermnetnz.org
Wish you all the best!
Dr Juber Hafiji