Is There a Link Between BRCA and Ovarian Cancer?

BRCA mutations can allow cancerous cells to divide and grow, putting you at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Knowing that you have a BRCA mutation can impact your treatment options.

Not real patients.

BRCA by the numbers

Having a BRCA mutation does not mean that you will get cancer, but it does increase your risk.

If you inherit a harmful BRCA1 variant, there's a 39-44% chance you'll develop ovarian cancer by age 70-80.

This Year Alone, Ovarian Cancer is Estimated to be Diagnosed in Over 19,000 Women

In 2023, the American Cancer Society estimates more than 19,000 new cases of ovarian cancer will be diagnosed in the United States.

Of those 19,000+ women, an estimated 2,850 have a BRCA mutation.

47% of Women With BRCA-Mutated Ovarian Cancer Have No Family History of Relevant Cancers

Family history is important, but it's not always an indicator of a BRCA mutation. A study showed that 47% of women with BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer have no family history of relevant cancers.

BRCA FACTS

The impact on ovarian cancer treatment

You might be wondering why someone who already has cancer would consider BRCA testing, but genetics can play a large role when determining treatment options.

If you have ovarian cancer and test positive for a BRCA mutation, your treatment options could completely change. Here’s what you need to know:

Some women with ovarian cancer are resistant to standard cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, making them less effective
Even if the cancer does respond to treatment, it can eventually return
Knowing that you have a BRCA mutation could determine treatment eligibility for targeted therapies
Some types of targeted therapy can target BRCA-mutated cancer cells, which means that women with a BRCA mutation are particularly sensitive to this type of treatment

Targeted therapy is advancing through new developments in science. You’ll want to know your BRCA status to see if you are eligible for these treatments.

Not a real patient.