BRCA1/BRCA2 Genes

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that produce proteins essential for repairing DNA damage and maintaining cell health. When these genes have mutations or errors, their ability to repair DNA is compromised, increasing the risk of developing certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancer. Women with inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have a higher lifetime risk of these cancers compared to the general population. Testing for these mutations can help identify individuals at increased risk, enabling proactive monitoring or preventive measures. These genes are part of the body's natural defense against genetic mutations that can lead to cancer.