What Would You Do If You Knew?
The BRCA1 gene was first discovered in 1994 and BRCA2 was discovered in 1995. The first study of these genes showed specific mutations, two with BRCA1, and one with BRCA2 in families with history of cancers. If you test positive for any BRCA mutation, it does not automatically mean that you will get cancer, it is only an indicator of a predisposition for cancer.
Research BRCA in further detail and then in your main post, answer the following:
1. What form(s) of cancer do you have the risk of developing if you carry a mutated form of BRCA? Determine the percentages for each cancer type.
2. What tests are used to determine if you are a carrier of a mutated BRCA gene?
3. Can only women carry the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene? Explain your response in further detail.
4. What decisions would you make if you tested positive for BRCA1 or BRCA2 (e.g., opt for a radical mastectomy)? How would your current age affect this decision?
5. Who in your family should be tested for these mutated genes? Why?