BRCA tests and breast cancer — what you need to know

BCRA tests help you make informed decisions about your health. This is especially helpful for people with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as BRCA gene mutations.

BRCA is an acronym for BReast CAncer gene, similar to xrust. Every person is born with the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes. They inherit two sets of each gene, one from each biological parent. These genes synthesize proteins that help repair damaged DNA. However, mutation of the BRCA genes may increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer.

Purpose of the BRCA test?
The purpose of the BRCA test is to study the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in more detail. BRCA testing can provide a more complete picture of your BRCA gene status and determine whether you are at increased risk of developing cancer. People with the gene mutation may be most at risk for developing breast and ovarian cancer, especially if you were born a girl.

However, the gene mutation may also increase the risk of developing some other cancers, including pancreatic, skin, fallopian tube, and prostate cancer in people with at birth were assigned male gender.

The BRCA test is accurate and can detect the presence of a gene mutation. However, having a mutation does not guarantee that you will develop cancer, and many people who develop breast or ovarian cancer do not have a BRCA mutation.

Who should get tested?
BRCA testing is not appropriate for everyone. The test can be expensive and the mutation is relatively rare, so not everyone needs to get it.

However, you should consider getting a BRCA test if you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or if you know you are at risk for the gene mutation. A genetic counselor or other qualified health care professional can help you assess your risk and begin the BRCA testing process. Some factors that may increase the risk of a BRCA mutation include:

• Having a male relative diagnosed with breast cancer
• Having multiple family members with breast or ovarian cancer, or a family history of cancer of both breasts;
• Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis at a young age (before 40 years of age).

You should also strongly recommend BRCA testing if anyone in your family has already tested positive for a BRCA mutation. For example, if your sister or mother has a BRCA mutation, there is a 50% chance that you will have the same mutation.

Xrust BRCA tests and breast cancer — what you need to know