BRCA Gene Mutations: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing

by National Cancer Institute

This resource provides an overview of the gene mutations BRCA1 and BRCA2. It explains how much an inherited harmful variant in these mutations can increase a woman’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer and what other cancers are linked. It provides information on whether variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are common in certain racial/ethnic population along with who should consider genetic counseling and testing. It also explains what the following BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic tests result mean: a positive result, a negative result, or a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) result. If a person has inherited a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, there are ways they can reduce their risk of cancer, which includes enhanced screening, risk-reducing surgery, and chemoprevention, which are discussed. Information on the benefits and harms of genetic testing for BRCA 1 and BRCA2 is also provided.