Breast cancer. Conceptual image of a naked woman with breast cancer holding her breasts, with a DNA autoradiogram projected onto her body. Autoradiograms show the genetic sequence of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). This sequence is unique for every individual and can be used to diagnose some inherited conditions. Breast cancer is the commonest cancer in women, affecting five percent of the female population. Research has shown that some patients have a genetic disposition to cancer. DNA screening could identify women at a high risk from cancer, resulting in early diagnosis and treatment, providing those women with a better chance of a cure.