Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
Changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC), which can increase your risk of developing certain cancers.
What is hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome?
Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) is an inherited condition. When you have a change in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, it can lead to an increased risk of developing certain cancers including:
- Breast cancer
- Male breast cancer
- Melanoma
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are called “tumor suppressor genes,” meaning they typically stop cancer cells from growing out of control. When these genes aren’t working like they should, cells in certain parts of the body are more likely to grow.
Understanding your cancer risk with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
People can have BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic changes and may never develop cancer. With appropriate screening and management, many of these cancers can be prevented or detected at an early, treatable stage.
Knowledge of your higher cancer risk will help you and your doctors develop an action plan that is right for you.
Melanoma, breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancers are associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes. Everyone with BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic changes, whether they were assigned male or female at birth, are at an increased risk for these types of cancer.
The specific risk for these cancers depends on several factors, including which gene is affected and family history. If you have hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome, talk with a genetic counselor and your doctors to learn more about your risks.
Living with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
If you have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic change, regular cancer screening and prevention are key to minimizing your cancer risks.
- For those assigned female at birth, this includes specialized breast cancer screening with mammograms and breast MRIs, beginning in young adulthood. Other risk-reducing options may also include surgery to remove the ovaries and breast tissue.
- For those assigned male at birth, screening options include prostate screening and clinical breast exams.
- In some cases, your doctor may also recommend routine pancreatic cancer screenings and regular visits to a dermatologist.
- Healthy habits such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and minimizing alcohol consumption are also important.
Talking with a genetic counselor and your doctors about the options to manage your cancer risks is recommended. Recommendations can also change over time, so connect with your genetic counselor and doctors regularly.
What does this mean for my family?
If you have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene change, your blood-related family members may have it, too.
We encourage you to share this information with your close blood relatives (children, full siblings and parents), as they have a 50 percent chance of having the same genetic change. More distant blood relatives may also be at risk.
At-risk family members can learn if they have the same genetic risk by getting a genetic test. A genetic counselor or other provider with genetics expertise can arrange for testing.
Resources for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
- Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered is a patient-centered nonprofit foundation that supports research, advocacy and education about hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. Contact: 866-288-7475 | facingourrisk.org
- Bright Pink is a patient-centered nonprofit organization that provides support and resources for young women at increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers: Contact: 312-787-4412 | brightpink.org
- BRCA1 and BRCA2: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing Fact Sheet from the National Cancer Institute, which breaks down BRCA1- and BRCA2-related cancer risks and genetic testing.
Find a provider who specializes in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
Many Geisinger providers specialize in helping people with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes and can help you develop a cancer screening and management plan.
- Talk with a genetic counselor and your primary care provider, who may refer you to Geisinger's Inherited Risk Breast Clinic.
- Speak with a Geisinger genetic counselor.
- Reach out to your primary care provider.
