BRCA Gene Testing and Prophylactic Mastectomy

14 May 2013

BRCA gene testing and prophylactic mastectomy were 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.

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.

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.