Wellness Testing • Suntree, Melbourne, Florida

BRCA Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer Risk

Risk assessment, genetic counseling guidance, and personalized prevention planning.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes involved in DNA repair. Certain inherited (germline) changes can increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Testing is typically most helpful when guided by personal and family history and paired with genetic counseling.

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When genetic testing is most useful

Major guidelines recommend risk assessment first. People with a personal or family history suggesting higher likelihood of harmful BRCA changes may benefit from genetic counseling and, if appropriate after counseling, genetic testing. Sources: USPSTF, NCI (NIH), CDC

  • Testing is recommended for those at increased risk based on history or ancestry (not as a blanket screen). Source: USPSTF
  • Genetic counseling helps interpret results and discuss next steps for prevention or early detection. Source: CDC
  • A BRCA test can’t predict with certainty whether someone will develop cancer—results guide risk management. Source: MedlinePlus (NIH)

What is BRCA genetic testing?

BRCA genetic testing looks for specific DNA changes (variants) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that can increase the likelihood of developing certain cancers. Testing is typically performed using a blood or saliva sample. Sources: NCI (NIH), Mayo Clinic

Who should consider it?

  • People with a personal or family history of breast cancer (especially at younger ages)
  • History of ovarian cancer, male breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, or high-risk/metastatic prostate cancer in the family
  • Known BRCA mutation in a close relative
  • Certain ancestries associated with higher likelihood of BRCA mutations (discuss with a clinician)
Sources: NCI (NIH), USPSTF.

Why genetic counseling matters

Pre-test counseling helps confirm whether testing is appropriate and which test is most informative. Post-test counseling helps interpret results and discuss next steps—such as screening, prevention strategies, and family implications.

Sources: CDC, USPSTF.

Understanding possible results

Positive (pathogenic / likely pathogenic)

A harmful BRCA change was found. This can raise cancer risk, but it does not mean cancer is certain. Your plan may include enhanced screening, risk-reduction strategies, and family risk discussions.

Sources: MedlinePlus (NIH), NCI (NIH).

Negative or Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS)

A negative result doesn’t always eliminate hereditary risk—especially if no known family mutation exists. A VUS means the finding isn’t currently understood well enough to change care on its own; management is based on personal/family history.

Sources: NCI (NIH), MedlinePlus (NIH).
Important: Genetic testing is not a standalone diagnosis or treatment. Results should be interpreted by a trained clinician/genetic counselor in the context of your history. Sources: CDC, USPSTF.

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear answers with references to trusted medical sources.

A BRCA test checks for inherited DNA changes in BRCA1 and BRCA2 that can increase the risk of breast, ovarian, and some other cancers. Sources: NCI (NIH), MedlinePlus (NIH)
USPSTF recommends assessing women with a personal or family history of breast/ovarian/tubal/peritoneal cancer or certain ancestries associated with BRCA mutations, with counseling and testing if indicated after counseling. Source: USPSTF (2019)
Testing is commonly done using a blood or saliva sample. Source: Mayo Clinic
A positive result indicates a harmful BRCA variant was found that is associated with increased cancer risk, but it cannot predict with certainty whether cancer will occur. Sources: MedlinePlus (NIH), NCI (NIH)
Genetic counseling supports informed decision-making, helps choose the right test, and explains what results may mean for you and your family. Source: CDC

Request an Appointment

Use the form below for non-urgent requests. If you have new, concerning symptoms, seek medical care promptly.

What to expect

We’ll review your personal and family history, discuss whether genetic counseling/testing is appropriate, and outline options for risk management.

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