BRACAnalysis ®

Introduction

BRACAnalysis ® is a genetic test that detects the presence of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation. BRCAmutations are responsible for the majority of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. People with a mutation in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene have risks of up to 87 percent for developing breast cancer and 39-63 percent for developing ovarian cancer by age 70. Mutation carriers previously diagnosed with cancer also have a significantly increased risk of developing a second primary cancer. In fact, patients with these types of mutations have an up to 64 percent chance of developing a second breast cancer by age 70.

BRACAnalysis ® requires only a simple blood test or oral rinse sample to determine if a person has a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. Knowing the results may help patients and their healthcare professionals either prevent or delay the onset of cancer or detect it at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Myriad has developed a Hereditary Cancer Quiz that patients and can use to help identify potential candidates for genetic testing using BRACAnalysis ®.

Description

The results of the BRACAnalysis ® test enable the development of patient-specific medical management plans to significantly reduce the risk of cancer. BRACAnalysis ® allows healthcare professionals to:
Target increased surveillance and other interventions specifically to those individuals with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation – maximizing patient care and increasing clinical efficiency;
Significantly improve outcomes and reduce medical costs through earlier diagnosis and treatment of cancer;
Counsel patients and family members on the underlying causes of the pattern of breast and/or ovarian cancer in their family; and
Avoid unnecessary interventions for family members who do not test positive for the mutation known to be in the family.