Oct 21, 2023 · The BRCA gene test looks for DNA changes that increase the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. It uses a sample of blood or saliva to look for the changes. DNA is the genetic material inside cells.

Testing for inherited changes in BRCA1 and BRCA2 can give several possible results: a positive result (a harmful change in the gene is present), a negative result (no harmful gene change is present), or a gene change (variant) of uncertain significance (VUS) result.

Aug 27, 2024 · Genetic testing can help you understand and manage your risk for breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Knowing whether or not you have a genetic mutation that makes you more likely to get cancer can help you decide what steps to take to prevent cancer or find it early.

BRCA testing looks for abnormal changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. A positive test result means you have a higher-than-average risk of developing breast, ovarian and other cancers. Knowing you have a BRCA gene mutation also means you can take steps to lower your risk and help prevent cancer.

May 27, 2021 · BRCA gene testing can help determine if someone has mutations in these genes and is at a higher risk of developing certain cancers. In this article, we’ll discuss what the BRCA gene test is,...

Dec 16, 2024 · Genetic test results show if you have a BRCA1, BRCA2 (BRCA1/2) or other inherited gene mutation related to breast cancer. For some people with breast cancer, test results help guide treatment. There are 3 possible results: Benign or likely benign variant (the test is negative, meaning the results are normal).

What is a BRCA gene test? A BRCA gene test uses a sample of your blood, saliva (spit), or cells from inside of your cheek to look for changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that may increase your risk of cancer. Changes in your genes are called gene variants or mutations. Not all gene variants are harmful.

Feb 21, 2024 · Mutations in two genes -- BRCA1 and BRCA2 -- are the most common causes of hereditary breast cancer, accounting for about 20% to 25% of cases. Usually, BRCA genes help prevent cancer by...

May 7, 2024 · Only a small percentage of people (about one in 400) carry mutated BRCA genes—specifically, mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Most people don’t know whether they have a BRCA mutation. And they won’t know until they or a close relative is diagnosed with cancer or undergoes genetic testing.

Understanding genetic testing can seem overwhelming at first, but BRCA testing is a straightforward and important tool in preventive healthcare. This type of genetic screening examines two crucial genes—BRCA1 and BRCA2—that play a vital role in protecting against certain types of cancer.