Breast Cancer
 
BRCA1 and BRCA2  

What are BRCA1 and BRCA2?

BRCA1 stands for BReast CAncer gene one, and BRCA2, or BReast CAncer gene two.

The function of these genes is to keep breast cells growing normally and to prevent any cancer cell growth. But when these genes contain abnormalities, or mutations, the abnormal genes are associated with an increased breast cancer risk. Abnormal BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may account for up to 10% of all breast cancers.

Women diagnosed with breast cancer who have an abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene often have a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or both. However, it's important to remember that most women with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.


Questions Related to BRCA1 and BRCA2
What is genetic testing for cancer?
What role do genetics play in breast cancer?
Are some woman genetically predisposed to breast cancer?
How are BRCA1 and BRCA2 involved in causing cancer?
Could I inherit a breast cancer abnormality gene from my father?
Does every woman with an abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene get breast cancer?
Who should get genetic testing?
How much does genetic testing for breast cancer cost?
Where can I get genetically tested for breast cancer?
How is the test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 performed?
What can I do if I have altered BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes?
If my genetic tests do not show that I have the altered genes, BRCA1 or BRCA2, does this mean that I will not get breast cancer?
Are certain populations or ethnicities more likely to have altered BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes?
Is genetic testing covered by insurance?
I have breast cancer. What are the chances that my children could develop other kinds of cancer?
Because I had breast cancer and was also in the at-risk population, I was advised to have genetic testing. Fortunately, I am not a carrier. But is it possible that the altered breast cancer gene could skip a generation and show up in my daughter?
What are the advantages of genetic testing?
What are the disadvantages of genetic testing?
Why is psychological counseling a component of genetic testing?
If I test positive for altered BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, can my insurance carrier drop me?
Is genetic discrimination prohibited by law?
Should I share my genetic test results with my husband or partner?
If I am thinking about getting genetically tested, what questions should I ask?

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