Cancer Risk Autosomal Dominant Treatment Available

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (BRCA1/2)

An inherited cancer syndrome that significantly increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. BRCA1 carriers have up to 72% lifetime breast cancer risk.

Genetic Information

Associated Genes

BRCA1 BRCA2

Inheritance Pattern

Autosomal Dominant

Carrier Frequency

1 in 400 (general), 1 in 40 (Ashkenazi Jewish)

Signs and Symptoms
  • No symptoms until cancer develops
  • Family history of breast/ovarian cancer
  • Early-onset breast cancer (before age 50)
  • Male breast cancer
Treatment and Management
Treatment is available for this condition.

Enhanced screening, risk-reducing surgery, chemoprevention

How Is It Inherited?

This condition follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. This means:

  • Only one copy of the altered gene is needed to cause the condition
  • An affected person has a 50% chance of passing it to each child
  • The condition can appear in every generation of an affected family
Medical Reference

For detailed clinical information, visit the GeneReviews article:

GeneReviews: Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (BRCA1/2)
Quick Facts
Category Cancer Risk
Inheritance Autosomal Dominant
Gene(s) BRCA1, BRCA2
Treatable Yes
Have Questions?

Speak with a board-certified genetic counselor to learn more about this condition and what it means for you.

Book Consultation
Resources
GeneReviews Article OMIM Database ClinVar Variants MedlinePlus Genetics
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional genetic counseling. If you have questions about genetic test results, please consult with a certified genetic counselor.