International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

The presence of a specific gene variant may increase the risk of particular individuals developing cancer, it has been reported.

According to research conducted by scientists at the University of Cincinnati, US, environmental exposure can increase the risks associated with the CHEK2 gene variant.

Peter Stambrook, a professor in the department of molecular genetics, biochemistry and microbiology at the university, and colleagues reported their findings in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this week.

He explained that the gene CHEK2 is part of a DNA damage response pathway that can have an impact on whether or not cancers develop.

"Women who carry this particular gene variant are predisposed to developing breast or ovarian cancer, while men have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer," Professor Stambrook added.

Earlier this month, research conducted by the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, US, indicated that cancer survival rates are improving in 15 to 24 year olds.