Breast and Ovarian Cancer (BRCA) Genetic Test

Should I be tested?

You may have several reasons to have the test:

• If you test positive, you would consider steps to lower your chance of cancer. These steps might include:
  • For breast cancer, regular clinical breast exams and mammograms, taking medicine, or having your breast tissue removed.
  • For ovarian cancer, having your ovaries removed.
• You would feel anxious not knowing if you have a higher chance of cancer.
• You have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. The chance is highest if you have two or more close relatives (mother, sister, or daughter) who have had breast or ovarian cancer, especially at a young age.
• You are of Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish ancestry, with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer. This group has a higher chance of having a BRCA gene change.
• Your insurance covers some or all of the cost of testing.
• If you test positive, you want to alert other family members (such as a sister or daughter) so they may consider having the test.

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Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: September 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology
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