Germline mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with a high lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer in women and men.
Knowledge of ones BRCA status is important as cancer can be prevented through risk-reducing mastectomy and salpingo-oophorectomy.
Identification of a BRCA mutation in a patient already diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer can influence treatment and prognosis of his/her current cancer as well as prevent future cancers.
How are the BRCA genes transmitted?
- A BRCA mutation can be passed to you from your mother or father.
- BRCA mutations are inherited in a dominant fashion. This means one copy of an altered BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene in each cell is sufficient to increase your chance of developing certain cancers.
Indications for BRCA Gene Testing:
- Young age at diagnosis (below 45 years)
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)
- Family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer
- Male breast cancer
Procedure for BRCA Gene testing?
- A Genetic Counselling consultation is set up for the patient in question.
- This enables the patient to understand the implications of the test.
- A blood or saliva sample is taken and sent to the laboratory for testing.
- Post test counselling is arranged
