A Life-Saving Step: Early Cancer Detection Starts with BRCA Genetic Testing

Did you know that 1 in 8 U.S. women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in her life, and 1 in 75 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in her lifetime^{1, 2}?

By now, many of us are familiar with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, and aware that mutations in these genes are hereditary. Angelina Jolie has helped shed light on the importance of early detection of these gene mutations following her decision to have a preventive, bilateral mastectomy and remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes.

However, even if you don’t have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, you can still carry the BRCA mutation. Recent studies show that 50 percent of women with BRCA mutations have no substantial family history of breast or ovarian cancer.³

“I believe that every woman should be offered testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2 at about age 30 as part of routine medical care,” says Dr. Mary-Claire King, the scientist who disccovered the BRCA genes. “About half of women who inherit mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have no family history of breast or ovarian cancer and have no idea they are carrying cancer-causing mutations. Most of inherited breast and ovarian cancer can be prevented, if mutation carriers know who they are.” (Read more here.)

The Motherhood worked with Veritas Genetics to make early BRCA gene detection a reality for a select group of bloggers interested in genetic testing.

Developed by leaders in genomics, Veritas Genetics’ myBRCA kit is a non-invasive genetic screening test for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. For everyone who gets tested using the myBRCA test, Veritas Genetics provides genetic counseling to help them interpret results.

Three bloggers from The Motherhood network explained their decision to get tested for the BRCA genes, and described their experience in their blog posts:

• Maureen, Wisconsin Mommy
• Melissa, Sippy Cup Mom
• Mickey, A Helicopter Mom

When you take the myBRCA test, Veritas donates a test to a woman in need. Should you test positive for a BRCA gene mutation, Veritas Genetics will provide up to four free myBRCA tests for your immediate family.

The goal of the myBRCA at-home test is to help save the lives of those for whom breast or ovarian cancer are likely and potentially preventable.

More information about the myBRCA test and Veritas Genetics can be found at www.veritasgenetics.com.

Tell us, would you consider undergoing BRCA genetic testing?

Sources:

¹ National Center for Biotechnology Information

² National Cancer Institute

3 JAMA