What is BRCA?
BRCAssure
The BRCA1 and BRCA2 (breast cancer 1 and 2) genes are two genes found within everyone’s normal genetic material. When mutations, or gene alterations, are found within these genes, the mutations can cause an increased risk for several specific types of cancer, including breast cancer and ovarian cancer.1, 2
BRCA mutations account for 5%–10% of all breast cancers,3 and can occur in both men and women of any ethnic or racial background. The estimated frequency of a BRCA mutation occurring in the general population is 1 in 400 to 1 in 5004.
BRCAssure
Targeted Testing for Hereditary
Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Labcorp's BRCAssure is a genetic test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in individuals at increased risk for developing hereditary breast, ovarian, or other cancers based on their personal or family history.
Having this information can allow your physician to provide the appropriate additional screening and/or prevention options that could help reduce your risk of developing cancer.
The BRCAssure test requires only a sample of blood and filling out a family history questionnaire.
BRCAssure Panels
Full sequencing of the BRCA1/2 genes, plus deletion/duplication analysis. May be used to assess the risk of carrying a BRCA1/2 mutation when the patient’s history suggests an increased risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer in the absence of a known familial mutation.
Targeted analysis of the founder mutations found within the Ashkenazi Jewish population. May be used as a first line test for individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent; if negative, the option to run a Comprehensive BRCA1/2 Analysis is available.
Targeted sequencing for specific familial or known mutation(s) on the BRCA1 gene.
Targeted sequencing for specific familial or known mutation(s) on the BRCA2 gene.
Risk of cancer in individuals with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation4
| Cancer Type | General population (no mutation) | Individuals with mutation | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BRCA1 | BRCA2 | ||
| Breast | 12% | 46-87% | 38-84% |
| Ovarian | 1–2% | 39-63% | 16.5-27% |
| Male Breast | 0.1% | 1.2% | Up to 8.9% |
| Prostate | 6% through age 69 | 8.6% by age 65 | 15% by age 65; 20% lifetime |
| Pancreatic | 0.5% | 1–3% | 2–7% |
Other testing options
In addition to hereditary cancer screening, we offer a range of tests for family planning: carrier screening for disorders such as cystic fibrosis; noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS/NIPT) and serum screening for conditions such as Down syndrome; and diagnostic testing options for post-pregnancy or further confirmation of screening tests.
Additional Resources
Genetic Counseling
Genetic counselors translate and communicate genetic information into practical, understandable terms.
Understand Your Results
If you have already had a test, we can answer questions about your results.
References
- BRCA1. Genetics Home Reference. Available at: http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/BRCA1. Accessed September 15, 2017.
- BRCA2. Genetics Home Reference. Available at: http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/gene/BRCA2. Accessed September 15, 2017.
- BRCA1 and BRCA2: Cancer risk and genetic testing. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet. Accessed September 15, 2017.
- Petrucelli N, Daly MB and Pal T. BRCA1- and BRCA2-associated hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Gene Reviews®. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1247. Accessed February 2018.