Genetic Counseling and Evaluation for BRCA1/2 Testing Cancer Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling by a suitably trained health care provider is important to help women make informed decisions about genetic testing. In a genetic counseling session for breast and ovarian cancer, the health care provider will typically collect a detailed family and medical history and discuss the following questions:

Following the genetic counseling session, a woman may decide she does not want BRCA1/2 testing, or she may learn that testing is not appropriate for her circumstances. For a woman who chooses to undergo BRCA1/2 testing, counseling can help her better understand the meaning of her test results.In addition, the careful evaluation of family history performed as part of a genetic consultation, may identify other, less common hereditary causes of cancer.

Several medical options are available for managing breast and ovarian cancer risk in women who have BRCA1/2 mutations. These options have risks and benefits and should be discussed with a health care provider knowledgeable about medical management for women with BRCA1/2 mutations.

The most effective option for preventing cancer from developing is undergoing surgery to remove the breasts and ovaries.

Other available options may reduce the chance of developing cancer, or improve the likelihood of detecting it earlier, but the effectiveness of these options is less certain.

BRCA1/2 test results can provide important information for family members.

Understanding and coping with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer can be challenging for individuals and families.Genetic counselors can help by providing information, resources, and support to families both with and without BRCA1/2 mutations.

Learn more about family history risk categories

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Genetic Counseling and Evaluation for BRCA1/2 Testing

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