How does genetic testing for breast cancer work?
Genetic testing for breast cancer involves using samples of your saliva, blood, or cells from the interior portion of your cheek. The sample is collected and sent to the lab that specializes in genetic testing to be analyzed.
Several gene variations that are responsible for causing breast cancer. The most popular gene variations are BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. According to the national institute, about 1 in 400 people develop a dangerous BRCA variation in their lifetime. Studies show that between 55 to 72 percent of women with harmful BRCA1 and 45 to 69 percent of ladies with harmful BRCA2 variations will have breast cancer by age 80. They also have a high risk of having breast cancer in the other breast.
Other gene variants responsible for breast cancer include:
- TP53
- PALB2
- CHEK2
- ATM
- PTEN
Gene variations that can be detected may depend on the test. For instance, some tests may only evaluate the most common variations, while others may evaluate multiple variations.