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What is BRCA1/BRCA2?
The name BRCA comes from the first two letters of breast cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that suppress malignant tumors (cancer) in humans. When these genes change (become mutated) they do not suppress tumors like they should. So people with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are at a higher risk of getting cancer.
What are the risk factors for BRCA2 mutations?
These include fallopian tube cancer (3, 4) and peritoneal cancer (5). Men with BRCA2 mutations, and to a lesser extent BRCA1 mutations, are also at increased risk of breast cancer (6) and prostate cancer (7). Both men and women with harmful BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations are at increased risk of pancreatic cancer (8, 9).
Does everyone with BRCA1 get breast cancer?
But some mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes prevent them from working properly, so that if you inherit one of these mutations, you are more likely to get breast, ovarian, and other cancers. However, not everyone who inherits a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation will get breast or ovarian cancer.
Should the general public be tested for the BRCA2 variant?
However, testing is not currently recommended for the general public. Instead, expert groups recommend that testing be focused on those who have a higher likelihood of carrying a harmful BRCA1 or BRCA2 variant, such as those who have a family history of certain cancers.
What are the risks of BRCA2 mutations?
People with BRCA2 mutations have hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). You have an increased chance to develop female or male breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, and possibly other types of cancer.
How do I find out if I have a BRCA1 mutation?
If you are concerned that you could have a BRCA1, BRCA2, or other mutation related to breast and ovarian cancer, the first step is to collect your family health history of breast and ovarian cancer and share this information with your doctor.
Who should be screened for the BRCA2 variant?
recommends risk assessment for women who have a personal or family history of breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer or whose ancestry is associated with having harmful BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants, as well as follow-up genetic counseling as appropriate.