Family discovers genetic mutation for early breast cancer detection

(FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) - Charlene Dumais was just 31-years-old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. At such a young age and with no family history, doctors were eager to determine the root of her diagnosis. She ultimately tested posted for the BRAC 1 genetic mutation.

Charlene's mother, Susan Sangeranio, was also brought in for genetic testing. She too tested positive for BRAC 1. In this case, doctors suggested she have her tubes, ovaries and breasts removed. But just two months before her scheduled surgery, Sangeranio was also diagnosed with breast cancer.

Charlene also has a twin sister who has tested positive for BRAC1, but for preventive measures, was scheduled for a prophylactic mastectomy for September 25.

As Charlene now battles a recurrence of her original breast cancer, she tells FOX 25's Nicole Jacobs, "I don't think it's fair for a parent to ever have to lose a child, and in our situation, there's probably a good chance that my parents would have to lose a child at some point, but they won't have to lose any more because we found the genetic mutation."

Cox Media Group