BRCA1 / BRCA2
Also known as: BRCA1, BRCA2, breast cancer gene
Inherited gene mutations that significantly raise the lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Definition
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that normally help repair damaged DNA. Inherited mutations in these genes substantially increase the lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and also raise the risk of pancreatic and prostate cancer.
Testing for BRCA mutations is offered to patients with a strong family history, early-onset breast cancer, ovarian cancer at any age, male breast cancer, or certain ancestries. A positive result has implications for treatment choice (BRCA-mutated tumours often respond to targeted PARP-inhibitor drugs), for screening, and for blood relatives who may wish to be tested. See also genetic testing.
See also
- Genetic Testing — Tests that examine genes to find inherited risk or to guide cancer treatment.
- Targeted Therapy — Drugs designed to attack specific molecules involved in cancer growth, with less harm to normal cells.
- DNA — The molecule that carries the genetic instructions inside every cell of the body.
- Recurrence — The return of cancer after a period of being undetectable.
Related on this site
Questions about your diagnosis?
Bring your reports — we'll review them together and explain every term that matters for your care.
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Rehan Abdullah
Dr. Rehan Abdullah is a dual-trained clinical and radiation oncologist with over a decade of experience treating both solid tumours and hematologic malignancies. He serves as Consultant Oncologist at INMOL Hospital and sees patients at Farooq Hospital and Healthnox Medical Center, Lahore. Read full profile →
This page is patient education, not a substitute for an in-person consultation. Cancer care must be individualised. Read our medical disclaimer →