People with grandparents from Whalsay, Shetland, are more likely than the rest of the UK population to have a gene which is linked to an increase in cancer risk.
In a Viking Genes study conducted by scientists at the University of Edinburgh it was discovered “one in 40 people” with ancestry from Whalsay have the same variation in the BRCA2 gene – the most common gene linked to prostate and breast cancer in men, and ovarian and breast cancer in women.
Their study examined the genetic information of over 2000 volunteers with “three or more Shetlandic grandparents”.
They found the BRCA2 gene in 0.4% of the subjects, this is equivalent to one in 230 people which is 130 times higher than the rest of the UK population.
Professor Jim Flett Wilson, who lead the study, explained how investing in genetic screening in the Northern Scottish Isles would be “very cost effective.”
The gene can be hereditarily passed down, affecting entire families. Findings suggest the gene was first passed down 300 years ago, by a founder of Whalsay.
Experts at the university commented on the value of testing for the gene:
“Early detection of the BRCA variants can offer the opportunity to reduce future risk of cancer through lifestyle advice, regular breast screening and risk-reducing surgery, experts say.”
“Little Water, Whalsay, Shetland – geograph.org.uk – 121472” by John Dally is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.