BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, also known as breast cancer genes are tumor suppressor genes whose mutations significantly increase the chances of having breast and ovary cancer. These two genes—BRCA1 and BRCA2—that increased the risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers were identified more than two decades ago by the researchers. This landmark discovery of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes led to a lookout test for the structural mutations and it then helped many individuals to make informed decisions about cancer screening and prevention.
People can inherit a harmful BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation from either their mother or father. According to researchers, every child of various parents +who carries the mutation in one of these genes could have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the mutation.
Implications of Genetic Testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes
It is easy to reveal through genetic testing if someone is carrying mutated BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. If this is the history of cancer patients in a family, then this information plays a crucial role in deciding whom to choose for genetic testing. The one who are going to be tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are those people who have been diagnosed with cancer, because if there is a mutation, the ones with cancer are the ones most likely to carry that mutation in the family.
Why is BRCA testing necessary?
BRCA testing simply identifies the variable changes in any BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. BRCA genes are type of genes which produce proteins that are involved in the repair of DNA . Abnormal changes simply like mutations to your BRCA genes increase your risk of breast cancer, as well as ovarian and other cancers in your body. If you know that you have the mutation then it allows you to take steps that can help in reducing the risk.
If you are getting a positive result for BRCA testing, then it can increase the risk the chances of cancer. If you know that you have a BRCA gene mutation enables you to take positive steps to prevent cancer.then It is going to help your family members to better understand their risks.
Genuine response to Key Findings
If you got a positive result for BRCA testing, then it would be a sign of cancer buildup and there could be a higher chance of having cancer in the near future. The patients could get a personalized treatment plan to reduce the chances of having cancer after the test is done.
Final Thoughts
BRCA-associated hereditary breast and ovarian cancer is characterized by an increased risk for male and female breast cancer, ovarian cancer (including fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancers), and to a less extent to the other cancers such as prostate, pancreatic, and melanoma, primarily in individuals with a BRCA2 pathogenic variant. The risk of developing cancerous cells is higher if a person tests positive for BRCA testing.
Now, with the help of genetic testing, individuals can take proactive measures to manage their health and prevent all the potential diseases before they arise. If you have certain symptoms, then talk to your healthcare provider, and you should also get tested through various clinical methods. Your healthcare provider will guide you with the best solutions.
