Inherited mutations in the BReast CAncer 1 and BReast CAncer 2 — BRCA1 and BRCA2 — genes are associated with increased risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Risk likelihood increases for women with a history of more than one family member with breast cancer, breast and ovarian cancer in the family, separate cancerous tumors at different sites, or Eastern European/Ashkenazi Jewish background. Testing for the BRCA genes involves meeting with a genetic counselor and getting a blood test.
Patient Advice
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BRCA Genetic Test Preparation:
“Before the test, consider how you would feel and what you might do if the results were positive. Could you deal with this? Do you have the support of family and friends?”
After the BRCA Genetic Test:
“Ask your healthcare provider any questions and keep asking a question — in different ways — until you understand the answer. Be an active participant in your healthcare.”
