Wondering if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family? At the Premier Surgical Network in New Jersey, we offer BRCA testing and personalized genetic counseling to help you understand your inherited cancer risk—and take proactive steps to protect your health. BRCA testing is a tool that helps identify inherited genetic mutations linked to increased cancer risk, particularly for breast and ovarian cancers. For those with a family history of cancer, this testing can provide crucial insights that guide preventive care and early detection strategies.
""BRCA testing gives us critical information to build personalized screening and prevention plans—often years before cancer develops,” explains Dr. Ann Chuang, a fellowship-trained breast surgeon in Montclair. "This knowledge allows us to create personalized surveillance and prevention plans, potentially saving lives through early intervention."
At Premier Surgical Network, we provide genetic counseling and BRCA testing services throughout New Jersey. Whether you're concerned about your family history or have been recently diagnosed, our breast health experts guide you every step of the way.
Understanding BRCA Genes
BRCA1 and BRCA2 (BReast CAncer genes 1 and 2) are genes that everyone has in their body. These genes produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA and act as tumor suppressors, helping to prevent cells from growing and dividing uncontrollably.
When working properly, these genes play a crucial role in preventing cancer development. However, certain mutations in these genes can significantly increase cancer risk:
- People with harmful BRCA1 mutations have up to a 72% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and up to 44% risk of ovarian cancer
- Those with harmful BRCA2 mutations face up to a 69% risk for breast cancer and around 17% risk for ovarian cancer
- Both men and women with these mutations also face increased risks for other cancers, including pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer (in men), and melanoma
These mutations can be inherited from either parent. While BRCA mutations are relatively uncommon in the general population (about 1 in 400 people), they appear more frequently in certain ethnic groups, particularly those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.
Who Should Consider BRCA Testing in New Jersey?
Not everyone needs BRCA testing. According to current medical guidelines, testing is most appropriate for individuals with specific risk factors that suggest a higher likelihood of carrying these genetic mutations.
Consider BRCA testing if you have:
- A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed at age 50 or younger
- Triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed at any age
- Ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer at any age
- Male breast cancer
- Two or more close blood relatives with breast cancer, with at least one diagnosed before age 50
- A family member with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
- Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry (particularly with any family history of breast or ovarian cancer)
- Multiple primary cancer diagnoses in the same person
It's worth noting that BRCA mutations can occur even without a family history of cancer, though this is less common. Concerned about your risk? Your healthcare provider can help determine if genetic testing is appropriate for you.
What to Expect During BRCA Testing at The Premier Surgical Network
BRCA testing involves several steps designed to ensure you receive accurate results and proper guidance throughout the experience.
What to Expect:
- Initial Consultation: Your healthcare provider or genetic counselor will review your personal and family medical history to assess whether testing is appropriate.
- Pre-Test Counseling: You’ll learn the potential benefits, limitations, and implications of genetic testing, including how results might affect you and your family members.
- Sample Collection: You’ll provide a small blood sample or sometimes a saliva sample. This is a simple procedure similar to other routine blood draws.
- Laboratory Analysis: Your sample is sent to a specialized laboratory where technicians analyze your DNA for specific mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- Result Timeline: Results are typically available within 2-4 weeks, though this varies based on the testing laboratory and type of test ordered.
Testing Options:
- Single-site testing: If a specific BRCA mutation has been identified in your family, you can be tested just for that particular mutation.
- Full sequence testing: This comprehensive approach examines the entire BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes for any harmful mutations.
- Multi-gene panel testing: These newer tests can simultaneously check for mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and several other genes associated with hereditary cancer syndromes.
Interpreting Test Results
BRCA test results fall into three main categories, each with different implications for your health management:
Positive Result
A positive result means a harmful mutation was detected in either your BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, indicating an increased risk for certain cancers. Remember, this doesn't mean you will definitely develop cancer.
What it means for you:
- You'll work with healthcare providers to develop a personalized screening and prevention plan
- You may be advised to start cancer screenings at an earlier age and undergo them more frequently
- You'll have access to additional risk-reducing options that aren't typically offered to average-risk individuals
- Your close blood relatives may benefit from genetic testing, as they could carry the same mutation
Negative Result
A negative result indicates no harmful mutations were found in your BRCA genes. However, the interpretation depends on your family history:
- If you have a known BRCA mutation in your family: A negative result is considered a "true negative," meaning you haven't inherited the mutation that runs in your family.
- If you don't have a known mutation in your family: A negative result is less definitive. It means no BRCA mutations were found, but you might still have mutations in other genes associated with cancer risk, or there could be BRCA mutations the test couldn't detect.
Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS)
Sometimes testing identifies a genetic change whose impact on cancer risk is unknown. This is called a variant of uncertain significance.
What it means for you:
- Current medical guidelines recommend treating this result similar to a negative result
- Your healthcare provider will base recommendations on your personal and family history, not on this genetic finding
- Over time, as research advances, more information may become available about your specific variant
- You may be contacted in the future if your variant is reclassified as either harmful or benign
Next Steps After Testing
Receiving your BRCA test results is just the beginning of your health journey. The results will guide important next steps for monitoring and reducing your cancer risk.
For Those With Positive Results
If your test reveals a harmful BRCA mutation, you have several options to manage your increased cancer risk:
Enhanced Surveillance
- Earlier and more frequent breast imaging (mammograms, MRIs)
- Regular clinical breast exams
- Transvaginal ultrasounds and CA-125 blood tests for ovarian cancer screening
- Specialized screening for other associated cancers based on family history
Risk-Reducing Medications
- Certain medications may help reduce breast cancer risk in high-risk individuals
- Options include selective estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors
- These medications can lower risk by 50% or more in some cases
Preventive Surgery
- Risk-reducing mastectomy (removal of healthy breast tissue) can lower breast cancer risk by 90%
- Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of fallopian tubes and ovaries) significantly reduces ovarian cancer risk and may also lower breast cancer risk
- Timing of these surgeries can be personalized based on your age, cancer risks, and family planning goals
Lifestyle Modifications
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular physical activity
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Eating a balanced diet
"After receiving a positive BRCA test result, it's crucial to remember that knowledge is power," notes Dr. Chuang. "Today's advanced screening methods and preventive options mean that individuals with BRCA mutations can take proactive steps that dramatically reduce their cancer risk and help ensure early detection if cancer does develop."
For Those With Negative or Uncertain Results
If your test is negative or shows a variant of uncertain significance, your healthcare provider will recommend appropriate cancer screening based on your personal and family history.
Family Considerations
A BRCA mutation diagnosis affects not just you but potentially your blood relatives as well. Consider:
- Sharing your test results with blood relatives who may also be at risk
- Encouraging at-risk family members to consult with genetic counselors about their testing options
- Participating in family support discussions to navigate this shared health information
Long-term Follow-up
- Stay current with recommended screenings and check-ups
- Maintain regular communication with your healthcare team
- Stay informed about advances in cancer prevention and treatment
- Consider joining a support group for people with hereditary cancer risk
Frequently Asked Questions about BRCA Testing
How much does BRCA testing cost in New Jersey?
The cost can vary based on your insurance coverage, family history, and testing panel. Many insurance plans cover genetic testing when medically indicated. Our team at PSN can help you verify coverage in advance.
Is genetic counseling included with BRCA testing?
Yes. At Premier Surgical Network, your BRCA testing experience includes personalized genetic counseling to help you understand the implications of your results.
Can I get BRCA testing if I don’t have a family history of cancer?
Possibly. While most guidelines prioritize those with family history or personal risk, some individuals without a known history may still qualify. A PSN provider can assess your eligibility.
Where can I get BRCA testing in New Jersey?
PSN offers BRCA testing and genetic counseling at several convenient New Jersey locations. Our breast surgeons and care coordinators will support you through every step of the process.
Take Control of Your Cancer Risk
Understanding your genetic risk through BRCA testing empowers you to make informed decisions about your health. Premier Surgical Network offers comprehensive testing services to help you navigate this important health decision. Our team of specialists can help determine if testing is appropriate for you, guide you through the testing process, and develop personalized risk management strategies based on your results.
Don’t wait to take control of your health. At Premier Surgical Network, our New Jersey-based care team offers expert BRCA testing, genetic counseling, and personalized prevention strategies. Schedule your consultation today to schedule your genetic consultation and take control of your cancer prevention journey.
