BRCA testing finds out any genetic changes within the human body that can cause risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, or prostate cancer. BRCA testing identifies the genetic changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that increase the risk of cancer. The changes in the gene is called mutations. Genes mean DNA of cells, and all DNAs are not harmful, but the DNAs that have mutations (damaged DNA) function abnormally, causing unexpected cell growth and cancers.
What are BRCA 1 and BRCA 2?
The BRCA1 (Breast Cancer gene 1) and BRCA2 (Breast Cancer gene 2) are the genes that help to repair damaged DNA by producing essential proteins. But, in case of any alteration of BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the chances of cancer in women and men both. The common chances of cancers due to genetic change of BRCA1 and BRCA2 are as follows.
- The women and men both may face an increased risk of breast cancer due to mutation of BRCA 1 and BRCA 2.
- Females have the chance of ovarian cancer due to mutation of BRCA 1 and BRCA 2.
- A male person can experience the genetic abnormalities in the prostate, a reproductive gland.
- There is a chance of pancreatic cancer due to changes in BRCA genes.
Medgneome provides BRCA testing through their advanced genetic services. This helps people understand their risk of cancer and take steps to stay healthy using accurate and trusted test results.
BRCA Testing Benefits
BRCA testing predicts the harmful variant of BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 present in your body. But the presence of this mutant variety does not always mean that you will have cancer. It indicates that you are exposed to higher risk of cancer. So that you can take steps to lower the risk and protect your health.
How is BRCA testing done?
BRCA test is done by collecting the sample from your blood, saliva or cheek swab.
- The health physician takes sample from vein of your arm in case of blood test by applying a small needle.
- In case of saliva testing, you have to spit in a container, and a sample will be collected using a cotton pad.
- In a cheek swab, a healthcare professional inserts a small tool into your cheek and collects a sample.
BRCA testing is safe and follows an easy process. It is not at all a painful procedure. It feels a little sting while collecting the sample and the mild pain at the time of insertion disappears within a few minutes. It hardly takes 5 minutes to complete the test. BRCA testing is a useful testing procedure for predicting your genetic changes that further help healthcare professionals to take necessary action to lower the chances of cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I do BRCA testing?
BRCA testing is usually suggested by healthcare professionals if you have any family history of ovarian or breast cancers.
Is there any risk in BRCA testing?
There is no risk associated with BRCA testing. You may have slight pain at the place of needle pricking, but it goes away quickly.
What is the average age of experiencing breast cancer?
Females around 41-50 years old can experience possibilities of breast cancer due to the mutation of BRCA 1, and females 51-60 years old may experience the chances of breast cancer due to mutation of BRCA 2.