The Dangers of Heredity: The BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes

On my ovarian cancer awareness page in the menu, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes get only a brief mention, buried in the “causes and risk factors.” But, stories lately, such as with Angelina Jolie getting a proactive mastectomy, are bringing these dangerous genes into the light. And what better way to promote it: if Angelina Jolie can get a proactive mastectomy, anyone can.

Did you know, that having one of the genes can give you a 60-85% chance of getting breast cancer, or a 15-40% chance of getting ovarian cancer? To me, that is too high of a risk. Thankfully, I got the genetic testing and found out I did not carry these genes. While I breathed a sigh of relief, I was still angry that I got ovarian cancer in the first place. Angry at my luck, and angry at the company that dumped the chemicals into my old neighborhood, just angry in general. (I was the third lady diagnosed on my block with ovarian cancer, and a friend of mine was the fourth. One woman lost her life.)

A teal sister I’ve gotten to know, Denise, found out her ovarian cancer was caused by the BRCA2 mutation. She passed the mutation to her daughter.  You can read about their story here. She was also featured in a video with her daughter. I love to share other cancer journeys from time to time. Please watch:

If you have anyone (or more than one) in your family with breast or ovarian cancer, please get tested. Genetic testing can be costly, but will be covered by most insurance if you have a family risk. It can be the most important test you will receive

If you are positive for either test, consider getting a proactive hysterectomy and mastectomy. Most of us do not want to get surgery unless something is wrong. But these procedures can minimize your chance of disease later. Why take the risk?

As always, know your body!