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BRCA gene testing and prophylactic mastectomy was thrust into the spotlight when Angelina Jolie announced in May 2013 that she tested positive for a BRCA mutation and underwent preventative surgery. The interview below discusses who should be tested, and some of the issues to consider regarding prophylactic surgery.

I also recently had the opportunity to participate in a discussion on breast cancer, focusing on mastectomy and BRCA testing, which was featured on the CurePanel Talk Show. I was joined by 4 breast cancer survivors / advocates, including AnneMarie Ciccarella, Heidi Floyd, Beverly McKee, and Jenn McCrea. We covered the indications for BRCA testing, options including surveillance and surgery, as well as the importance of genetic counseling prior to any testing. Finally, it is important that any patient found to be a BRCA gene mutation carrier, that before making any decision, it is important to review all of your options. The decisions that need to be made are difficult, and should only be made after appropriate counseling and education.

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This comprehensive Fact Sheet from the National Cancer Institute contains information about the BRCA 1 and 2 genes, guidelines for testing, implications of positive and negative test results, and options for treatment and surveillance.

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FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered) is a national nonprofit organization devoted to improving the lives of people and their families affected by hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.