The association of germline mutations in the breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) and the breast cancer\nsusceptibility gene 2 (BRCA2) with the development of breast and ovarian cancers have been widely researched\nand recognised. It is known that these genes function at multiple sites in the body. Research has subsequently\nevolved into the connection of BRCA1/2 with cancers at other sites within the body. This review examines the\nassociation of BRCA1/2 germline gene mutations with prostate, pancreatic and stomach cancers. An extensive\nliterature search revealed conflicting findings regarding the association of BRCA1/2 gene mutations with these\ncancers. Most studies suggest that there is an association between BRCA1/2 mutations and carcinoma of the\nprostate, pancreas and stomach, but some reports propose that such a correlation may be due to factors other\nthan possessing a mutated BRCA1/2 gene, and other associations may be revealed as further epidemiological\ninformation becomes available. The review concludes that as more knowledge arises about the mechanisms of\nBRCA1/2 gene mutations, it should pave the way for future screening programmes to be applied effectively.
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