Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer

In hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, the two diseases are often linked together. This is because they develop from the same mutated genes in cases of hereditary cancer. These genes are called BRCA1 and BRCA2.

What are BRCA1 and BRCA2?

BRCA genes control cell multiplication and are responsible for repairing damage to DNA. If the gene has been damaged, or mutated, then it can no longer perform its job properly.

How is the gene passed on to a child?

In the human body, we have 2 sets of 23 chromosomes. Each set of chromosomes contains DNA from each parent. Within each chromosome, there are thousands of genes. These genes are also in pairs.

The BRCA gene is pair, one containing DNA from the mother, and one containing DNA from the father.

If the mother or father's BRCA gene is mutated, it may be passed on to a child at conception.

Are there tests available to find out if a person has a mutated BRCA gene?

There is a simple blood test that can detect a mutated BRCA gene. People with breast and ovarian cancer can be tested, and if mutation is found, this will provide vital information for family members. People without cancer can also be tested as well.