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Breast & Ovarian Cancer Genetic Risks

Two genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, are known to dramatically increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer in her lifetime

More than 190,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. But only 5-10% of those breast cancers are caused by an inherited genetic mutation. The same gene can put women at a higher risk of ovarian cancer as well. Genetic counseling for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can tell a woman whether she is at increased risk for these cancers. The test does not guarantee who will or will not get breast cancer or ovarian cancer.

BRCA1 and BRCA2

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are human genes that belong to a class of genes known as tumor suppressors. A tumor suppressor gene protects a cell from one step on the path to cancer. Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 have been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

Genetic Counseling

A genetic counselor can help you understand if you're likely to have an inherited susceptibility to breast or ovarian cancer. More information about this is available on our Genetic Testing for Breast and Ovarian Cancer web page.

Breast & Ovarian Risk Evaluation Program at the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center

The Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk Evaluation Program provides individuals with an accurate assessment of their personal risk for developing breast and other related cancers and offers a plan for follow-up and preventive care. Visit the program's web page to learn more or to make an appointment.

For More Information

Questions?

Please contact the the Cancer Answerline at telephone 1-800-865-1125; or through theirweb page.

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See Also:

• Breast Cancer Clinical Trials

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