A positive test result means that you have a genetic mutation in your BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene that is known to increase cancer risk. Knowing that you have a BRCA mutation can empower you to take action.
BRCA-mutated cancer may respond differently to certain cancer treatments, such as a targeted therapy. If you have cancer, ask your health care team how your BRCA status may affect your treatment plan and what treatment options would be best for your care
Because some BRCA mutations are hereditary, the risk of developing cancer may be passed on to family members. Both female and male relatives may carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation and should be tested to assess their cancer risk. Finding out early could prompt them to get cancer screenings regularly
If you don’t have cancer, a positive BRCA result can help guide you on ways to reduce your risk. Learn more about reducing risk
A negative test sounds straightforward, but it could mean something different, depending on your family history.
If a close relative (for example, a sibling or cousin) has tested positive for a BRCA mutation, a negative test is considered a true negative. This means that you do not carry the BRCA mutation
If no one in your family has tested positive for a BRCA mutation, but you have a family history of cancer, a negative result is not as straightforward. A very small number of genetic tests can miss the BRCA mutation, and scientists continue to discover new BRCA mutations. It is possible that you have an unknown mutation in the BRCA gene
You may have a mutation in a gene other than BRCA1 or BRCA2. Your health care team may recommend more testing for other genetic mutations
A negative test sounds straightforward, but it could mean something different, depending on your family history.
Some BRCA mutations found during testing are not known to increase the risk of cancer. This occurrence is often referred to as a “genetic variant of unknown significance.” As more research is done, scientists will learn more about these mutations and cancer risk.
If you’ve received this type of result, it’s recommended that you contact a genetic counselor every 12 months to see if any additional mutations have been discovered.
If you’re unsure whether or not you should get tested, see when BRCA testing can help.
