About 13% of women in the U.S. will get breast cancer during their lives. But some women have a much higher risk because of their genes.
Breast cancer develops when normal cells start to grow abnormally and form a tumor. Certain genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, help repair damaged DNA to keep cells from growing out of control. Everyone has these genes, but some people inherit harmful changes (called mutations) in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which prevent the genes from working properly.
An inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation raises your risk of developing breast cancer. The lifetime risk of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene ranges from 45% to 80% by the age of 70. This is compared to about 13% for the general population. BRCA1-related breast cancers are more likely to be triple-negative, a type that is harder to treat. And these gene mutations also increase the risk for other kinds of cancer, including ovarian, pancreatic and prostate cancers.
Who should consider genetic testing?Testing is often recommended if you have:
- A family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
- Ashkenazi or Eastern European Jewish ancestry.
- A personal history of breast cancer.
- A personal history of ovarian, fallopian tube or peritoneal cancer.
- A BRCA gene mutation in your family.
Testing can be done before or after a cancer diagnosis. It can help you reduce your risk or guide treatment decisions. Results can also alert family members to their own potential risk. A genetic counselor can help you understand what the results mean for your health.
Possible results include:
- Positive. A known harmful mutation is found.
- Negative. No harmful change is found.
- Uncertain. A gene change is found, but its impact is unclear.
A positive result means you have a higher risk of developing certain cancers, but it doesn’t mean you will definitely get cancer. And a negative result doesn’t rule out all risk.
Managing cancer risk
If you are at a heightened risk for breast cancer or wish to discuss your history, the
Watson Clinic Women’s Center offers a nurse practitioner who is specially trained in breast diseases and can help you develop a personalized surveillance plan. Call 863-680-7638 to schedule an appointment.