Genetic testing for breast cancer
Understanding inherited gene changes like BRCA1/2
The short version
Genetic testing looks for inherited changes in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 that can raise the risk of breast and other cancers. It's usually done with genetic counseling to help interpret what a result does and doesn't mean.
Genetic testing looks for inherited changes in genes — most commonly BRCA1 and BRCA2 — that can raise the risk of breast and certain other cancers. It may be recommended based on your age, diagnosis type (such as triple-negative), or family history.
Why genetic counseling matters
A genetic counselor can help explain what a positive, negative, or uncertain result means for you and your family, and what options — like more frequent screening or discussions with relatives — might follow.
- Positive — a gene change was found that is associated with increased cancer risk
- Negative — no gene change was found in the genes tested
- Variant of uncertain significance — a change was found, but it isn't yet clear whether it affects risk
Questions you may want to ask
Am I a candidate for genetic testing or counseling?
How might a result affect my treatment options or my family?