BRCA1 & BRCA2
BRCA1 means Breast Cancer Gene 1. BRCA2 means Breast Cancer Gene 2. Both BRCA1 and BCRA2 genes have over 1500 different mutations. Somen women who carry a certain mutation in the BCRA genes have a higher risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Breast cancer due to an inherited BRCA1/2 mutation often occurs before menopause and can affect both breasts (bilateral breast cancer). It is estimated that 1 in 500 (0.2%) women carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Only 5% of women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have been identified.
Men with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation may also be at risk for breast cancer and prostate cancer.
BCRA1 and BCRA2 and very similar genes that can lead to similiar health issues when they are mutated. The main differences are:
- For BCRA1, more men and women with a mutation are at a higher risk of colon cancer.
- For BCRA2, more men and women with a mutation are at a higher risk of pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancer.
BCRA1 mutations can increase cancer risk for these organs.
BCRA2 mutations can increase cancer risk for these organs.
We also know that both men and women can pass on a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation to either their daughter or their son.