Which types of cancers are associated with BRCA1 or BRCA2?
BRCA and BRCA2 are associated with a higher risk for:
- Breast Cancer
- Ovarian and Fallopian cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Pancreatic Cancer
Breast and ovarian cancers are the most common cancers diagnosed with a BRCA1 and BRCA2 pathogenic variant.
Does having a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant guarantee I will definitely get cancer?
No. Not every person with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant will get cancer. However, these people do have an increased chance of developing cancer, particularly cancer of the breasts or ovaries.
Several factors affect your personal cancer risk, including:
- your age
- family history
- type of pathogenic variant you have
- if you were born male or female
- overall lifestyle
We currently cannot pinpoint the exact likelihood of cancer for someone with a pathogenic variant. However, large studies provide estimates how having a pathogenic variant might influence the chances of developing cancer.
To learn more about estimated cancer risks:
I just tested positive for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant, what are the next steps?
Our healthcare team at UCSF will give you information on your risks based on your genetic testing results, family history, and other specific risk factors. We will discuss what is important to you and make recommendations for cancer screening and risk reduction. The Center for BRCA Research has detailed guidelines for cancer surveillance, prevention, and other aspects of care.
For more information:
Preparing for Your Appointment Resources
Surveillance Risk Reducing Surgeries Lifestyle
What does testing positive for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant mean for my family?
Since testing positive for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic variant is a genetic risk factor that is passed down from generation to generation, we recommend informing siblings, adult children, and relatives on the appropriate side of the family, offering counseling, and considering genetic testing for relatives over 18-25 years old. For children who inherit the genetic variant, we will help families decide how to discuss the optimal timing of testing and initiation of screening.
Check out our educational workshop:
Talking to and Testing Relatives
What are some common myths about BRCA?
Do pathogenic variants that increase chances of breast and/or ovarian cancer just come from women only?
No. Genetic pathogenic variants that increase breast and/or ovarian cancer, such as BRCA, can be passed down from both parents.
Do pathogenic variants that increase chances of breast and/or ovarian only affect women?
No. Genetic pathogenic variants that increase breast and/or ovarian cancer, such as BRCA, can also increase risks of cancers in men. For example, men with BRCA are at a higher lifetime risk of prostate and pancreatic cancer. To learn more about BRCA Risk of Cancer, click here (link to BRCA Risk of Cancer).
Does testing positive for a genetic pathogenic variant mean you have cancer or will definitely get cancer?
No. A positive genetic test result means that you have an increased chance of developing certain types of cancer. A positive test does not mean that you have cancer or are guaranteed to get cancer.