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Contents
  • Understanding Genetic Risks
  • Who Should Get Tested?
  • The Role of Genetic Counseling

Are You at Risk for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer?

Are You at Risk for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer?

The Big Picture

Some people have a higher risk of getting breast and ovarian cancer due to their genes. Understanding these risks can help in taking preventive steps and choosing the right treatments.
Contents
  • Understanding Genetic Risks
  • Who Should Get Tested?
  • The Role of Genetic Counseling

Understanding Genetic Risks

Genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 play a big role in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. If there are harmful changes, called pathogenic variants, in these genes, it increases the risk of developing these cancers. While most cases of these cancers happen randomly, a significant percentage are due to these genetic variants.

Who Should Get Tested?

Individuals with a family history of breast, ovarian, prostate, or pancreatic cancer should consider genetic testing. Testing is most effective when started with a family member diagnosed with one of these cancers. Guidelines help identify who should be tested based on personal or family history.
A condition characterized by an increased risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer due to genetic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

The Role of Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling is important before and after testing to understand the implications of the results. Counselors help interpret results and guide on the next steps, ensuring that the right decisions are made based on the genetic information received. They also discuss how these findings may affect family members.

FAQs

What genes are commonly linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer?

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most commonly linked genes.

Who should consider genetic testing for cancer?

Those with a family history of certain cancers or specific genetic traits.

How can genetic counseling help?

It aids in understanding test results and planning next steps.

Wrapping Up

Understanding your genetic risk can be a game changer in cancer prevention and treatment.
Want to know if you should get tested? Chat with Doctronic today!
Additional References
  1. Risch HA, McLaughlin JR, Cole DE, et al. Am J Hum Genet 2001; 68:700.
  2. Couch FJ, Shimelis H, Hu C, et al. JAMA Oncol 2017; 3:1190.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.