mastectomy

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER and thank you for reaching out to our community.

Did your surgeon tell you what type of cancer was identified on the biopsy?

A BRCA mutation is a mutation in either of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are tumor suppressor genes. Hundreds of different types of mutations in these genes have been identified.

Anonymous, according to the National Cancer Institute, "Because harmful BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are relatively rare in the general population, most experts agree that mutation testing of individuals who do not have cancer should be performed only when the person’s individual or family history suggests the possible presence of a harmful mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2.

In December 2013, the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommended that women who have family members with breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer be evaluated to see if they have a family history that is associated with an increased risk of a harmful mutation in one of these genes."

Follow the recommendation of your physician. BRCa testing is a valuable diagnostic tool.
My maternal grandmother developed breast cancer in her 80s and I was diagnosed with DCIS at at the age of 56 and did have BRCA testing, which was negative. I felt it was important because I have a daughter.

Positive BRCA result carries an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer.

Anonymous, to learn more about BRCA1 and BRCA2,please read this article,
"BRCA1 and BRCA2: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing"
http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet#q6

or visit our Breast Cancer Homepage
https://www.empowher.com/condition/breast-cancer

Please keep us updated and revisit if we can be of help.
Maryann