Having a BRCA mutation means that you’re at a higher risk of developing cancer. This knowledge can empower you to regularly screen for cancer or take action that may reduce your risk. When ovarian cancer is found early before it has spread, about 94% of women live longer than 5 years after their cancer is diagnosed.
Discovering a BRCA mutation can influence your doctor’s approach to treating your cancer. Certain treatments can target tumor cells with BRCA mutations. This means that having a BRCA mutation could enable you to receive this kind of targeted therapy. And because BRCA mutations can be hereditary, knowing that you have one can help inform your family about their risk of also having the mutation.
Uncovering a BRCA mutation can open up other potential treatment options. Targeted therapy is a possible option for people with recurrent cancer and a BRCA mutation. You’ll need to talk with your doctor to decide which option is best for you.
