Understanding your genetic risk for breast cancer can help you make informed decisions about screening and prevention.
When we exclude skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women in the United States. About one in three cancers diagnosed in women each year is breast cancer. In 2025, the American Cancer Society estimated that around 316,950 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women – and as many as 42,170 women will die from breast cancer. There are various risk factors for breast cancer including age, sex, family history, age at menarche and menopause, use of medications and alcohol use, just to name a few. But an estimated 5-10% of these cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations.
What are genetic mutations?
Genetic mutations are changes in the DNA that change the risk for developing cancer. Mutations happen frequently as cells divide and most do not impact health. However, some can increase cancer risk; crucially, this mutation can be passed on to offspring during reproduction.
There are several such mutations but perhaps the best known one is BRCA. There are two BRCA genes: BRCA 1 and BRCA 2. The two account for 15-20% of all familial breast cancers and increase risk for other cancers as well, including ovarian cancer.
When to consider genetic testing
So what can you do if someone in your family tests positive for one of these mutations? If the person affected is a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child), then you should meet with your provider to discuss a referral for genetic testing. This involves meeting with a genetic counselor and understanding what your relative’s results mean for your own risk of developing cancer before being tested. If a genetic test does reveal a mutation of concern, next steps could include screening at an early age (often as early as in their 20’s) using breast MRI, and discussions about preventive surgeries.
This can all seem very confusing and thinking about cancer can be scary. There are many nuances to genetic testing and cancer screening that are best discussed with your healthcare provider. To learn how Primary.Health technology enables public and private entities to offer easy, accessible preventive health screenings and immunizations, contact our Sales Team.
Disclaimer: This blog content and linked materials are not intended as individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered as such. Any readers with medical concerns should contact a licensed healthcare provider. This blog is provided for informational purposes only.
