In approximately 10% of breast cancers, the cause is genetic. In 80% of genetically caused breast cancers, there is a defect in two genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2, in other words, these genes are mutated. Breast cancer is also known to occur in men who carry the BRCA2 gene. People who carry these two genes, which greatly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, should be closely monitored.
The BRCA gene test is a blood test using DNA to detect harmful changes in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. The BRCA test is recommended for people with a family history of cancer due to a genetic mutation. The BRCA gene test determines whether you carry a genetic BRCA mutation, which can help you understand your cancer risk.
