Why Get BRCA Tested

 Why Get BRCA Tested

People often get genetic testing to see if they are at risk of developing certain cancers associated with BRCA mutations. This way, they can take steps to try to protect themselves from the increased cancer risk.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer screening is critical to early detection and diagnosis. However, it's important to start early if you have a BRCA mutation.

“We tell women to start their mammograms in their 40s or 50s, but if you knew your breast cancer risk was much higher – as it would be if you had BRCA1 or 2 mutation – you would want to start younger,” Garber says.

That’s because your risk of cancer could occur earlier in life.

Prophylactic surgery, a procedure that is done to prevent the development of cancer, is another option. A double mastectomy involves the surgical removal of both breasts. In some cases, as much breast tissue as possible is removed, while other cases require a complete removal of the breast, including the nipple. However, it's important to note that even with total mastectomy, not all breast tissue that may potentially be cancerous can be removed, according to the National Cancer Institute.

If you’re at high risk for breast cancer, the decision to have preventive surgery is a major one and should be discussed with your doctor.