BRCA1 and BRCA2: No Longer the Only Troublesome Genes Out There

By PJ Hamel, Health Guide Tuesday, May 29, 2007

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By now, most of us are probably pretty familiar with the BRCA1 and BRCA2 (pronounce them “bracka 1 and bracka 2”) genes. Identified in 1990, they were the first genes positively linked with an increased risk for breast cancer. Since then, it’s been determined that women whose heritage is Ashk...

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jay

5/31/07 1:18pm

Mom had breast cancer when I was a kid- now found out to be BRCA2+ and is proactively taking steps to reduce her chance of recurrance... I tested negative.

Both of us did genetic testing last year. I thought at the time when I got back the results of my test that I was just general population...

But what happens now? Was it for naught? Is she positive for one of the new ones found? Am I?

More to worry about.

PJ Hamel, Health Guide

5/31/07 5:25pm

Jay, I wouldn't worry about these new genes. As the research says, they are MUCH less likely to result in breast cancer than BRCA1 and 2. And thee are so many other factors that go into whether or not you get breast cancer.... Hooray for you for testing negative; and good for your mom, for knowing she's positive and taking steps. In my opinion, you've done all the right things, and there's nothing else for you to do but let go of your anxiety as much as you can, and enjoy life each day. - PJH

BRCA1 and BRCA2: No Longer the Only Troublesome Genes Out There

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