Table of Contents
What does it mean if you test positive for the BRCA2 gene?
A positive test result means that you have a mutation in one of the breast cancer genes, BRCA1 or BRCA2, and therefore a much higher risk of developing breast cancer or ovarian cancer compared with someone who doesn’t have the mutation. But a positive result doesn’t mean you’re certain to develop cancer.
At what age should you get tested for the BRCA gene?
Most health organizations recommend testing women who have a family or personal history from age 25. This is also the age at which it is advised to begin periodic screening for the early diagnosis of breast lesions, such as manual exams by a surgeon and imaging tests.
How serious is the BRCA2 gene?
Women with BRCA2 gene mutations have an approximately 12 to 25 percent chance of developing ovarian cancer in their lifetimes, as compared with 1.6 percent in the general population.
When is a double mastectomy recommended?
When is bilateral mastectomy recommended? Having both breasts removed is recommended for women at very high risk of breast cancer. For example, those who have tested positive for a breast cancer (BRCA) gene change are at very high risk.
What is the difference between BRCA1 and 2?
Differences Between BRCA1 and BRCA2 Both mutations increase the risk of ovarian cancer, as well as pancreatic cancer. A BRCA1 mutation can also increase the risk of cervical, uterine, and colon cancer, while BRCA2 can increase the likelihood of stomach, gallbladder, and bile duct cancer, plus melanoma.
What cancers does BRCA2 cause?
Women who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation are at an increased risk of breast, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers. Men who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation are at an increased risk of prostate, pancreatic, and breast cancers.
How common is the BRCA2 gene?
About 1 in every 500 women in the United States has a mutation in either her BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. If either your mother or your father has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, you have a 50% chance of having the same gene mutation.
How to get tested for BRCA2 gene?
have your children without any intervention,and risk your child inheriting the faulty gene
Who qualifies for BRCA testing?
Who qualifies for BRCA testing? You may qualify for BRCA genetic testing if you have: Breast cancer diagnosed at 50 or younger. Ovarian cancer at any age. A family member with a “BRCA mutation”. A strong family history of breast, ovarian, prostate or pancreatic cancer.
Who should have BRCA testing?
This test is only recommended for those who have a strong family history of breast cancer or family history of ovarian cancer. But most people with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer—even a strong family history—do not have BRCA gene changes. Not everyone who inherits a BRCA gene change will get cancer.
When is BRCA testing recommended?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) provides guidelines for when a person should consider having a BRCA blood test. Currently, testing is not recommended for the general public. In general, a BRCA test is recommended if: you’ve had multiple blood relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer or ovarian cancer (or both)