The genomic instability observed in NBS patients is primarily due to defective DNA repair mechanisms. Over time, this instability can lead to the accumulation of genetic mutations that drive the development of cancer. The most common types of cancer associated with NBS are lymphoid malignancies, such as Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and leukemias. The incidence of cancer in NBS patients is significantly higher compared to the general population, with estimates suggesting that up to 40% of these individuals develop cancer by the age of 20.
