Cari
/bɹˈɛst kˈansə dʒˈiːn wˈɒn/
/bɹˈɛst kˈænsɚ dʒˈiːn wˈʌn/a gene associated with increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers due to mutations, making it important in cancer genetics and testing
What is "Breast cancer gene 1"?
Breast Cancer Gene 1, or BRCA1, is one of the two main genes associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. BRCA1 is involved in repairing damaged DNA, which helps protect against cancer. When this gene has certain changes it can harm the DNA repair process, significantly raising the risk of developing breast cancer and, in some cases, ovarian cancer, often at a younger age compared to changes in BRCA2. Additionally, BRCA1 changes can also increase the risk of pancreatic and prostate cancers. Genetic tests that detect changes in BRCA1 can help evaluate an individual's risk of these cancers and make appropriate decisions about preventive measures and treatment options.
