Genetic Testing

Genetic predisposition is the most significant risk factor for the development of breast cancer. Having a family history on either your maternal or paternal side may put you at a higher risk for developing the disease.

One of the most common gene mutations associated with breast cancer is the Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) Syndrome. This includes the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. With this syndrome, there is a 0.1% risk of developing breast cancer in the average population, but a 2-3% risk in those of Ashkenazi Jewish decent.

BRCA1 has the greatest association with breast and ovarian cancer and usually occurs with younger age onset. BRCA2 carriers are typically at a later age onset and most common with postmenopausal women. BRCA2 also has a strong association with male breast cancer. In addition, both men and women with BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 have a higher risk for pancreatic cancer.

Consider testing if you have personal or family history of the following:

At the KSK Breast Center, we use a very simple collection method called Buccal BRAC Sample Collection. It is an oral rinse procedure, rather than a blood sample, in which cells are released from the lining of the mouth. The cells sample is then sent to a laboratory to obtain DNA for testing.

For the test, it is imperative that you do not eat, drink, or chew gum for one hour prior to the sample collection. During the procedure, you will rinse your mouth two times with a mouthwash. After each rinse, you discharge all of the mouthwash into a collection tube. The collection tube is then sent to a lab for analysis. Your results are usually received within 2 weeks and will be sent to you and your primary healthcare physician.