BRCA Gene and Breast Cancer
There is a lot of research about lowering the risk of developing cancer through early detection. You may have heard about that The BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene test. According the National Cancer Institute, these genes tell us a lot about cancer development. The BRCA gene test analyzes the DNA in a person’s blood or saliva to look for mutation in these genes. If a mutation in these genes exist, there is an increased risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
The National Cancer Institute states, “mutations to BRCA1 and BRCA2 account for 20 to 25 percent of hereditary breast cancers and about 5 to 10 percent of all breast cancers.” For ovarian cancer, “mutations to both genes account for 15 percent “(1).
Who Should Get Tested
According to the United States Preventative Task Force, an individual with family history of breast or ovarian cancer should get tested. More specific factors include: age of family member’s onset, multiple diagnosis, and/or male breast cancer diagnosis.
If the test comes back positive, there are various treatment options. These include earlier screenings and preventative surgeries. It is important to remember that these tests reveal possible increased risks for cancer. There are a lot factors that contribute to a cancer diagnosis. For more information on genetic testing and results go to https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet#q1 .
References:
- National Cancer Institute https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet#q1
