| LEARN MORE | NEXT STEPS | ALREADY TESTED |
| LEARN MORE | NEXT STEPS | ALREADY TESTED |
Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer FAQs
About the Test
Q: How is BRACAnalysis performed?
A: A sample can be obtained with either a blood draw or an oral rinse. The sample is sent to Myriad Genetic Laboratories for analysis. This analysis involves a complex process called gene sequencing.
Q: Where can I get BRACAnalysis done?
A: BRACAnalysis can only be ordered by a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional. Your healthcare professional will determine where the test sample will be done.
Q: How long does it take to get the test results from my BRACAnalysis?
A: Your doctor will let you know your test results as soon as they are available—as early as 2 weeks from the date your test is started.
About my Results
Q: If my BRACAnalysis results are positive for a BRCA gene mutation, are there things I can do to reduce my risk of cancer?
A: Yes, risk of cancer can be reduced. You and your doctor have a number of options to discuss:
Remember, not all options may be right for you.
Find a full discussion of results here.
Q: If I've already had breast cancer, what would a positive BRACAnalysis result mean?
A: People with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation are at a greater risk of developing a new cancer, either in the ovaries or breast. Knowing your BRCA status can help you take steps to reduce or nearly eliminate this risk or detect another potential cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Q: Does a positive BRACAnalysis result mean that I currently have cancer, or a recurrence, or that the cancer has spread?
A: No, BRACAnalysis does not confirm whether or not you currently have cancer. Your results identify a genetic mutation that increases inherited risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Q: Am I still at risk for ovarian cancer if my BRACAnalysis result was positive, even though no one in my family has had ovarian cancer?
A: Yes. A woman who carries a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation is at an increased risk for both breast and ovarian cancer, even if there are no known cases of ovarian cancer in the family.
Q: Is BRACAnalysis appropriate for men as well?
A: Yes, men can carry the BRCA mutation. Men in the following circumstances should consider testing:
Although male breast cancer is rare, men who carry BRCA mutations are more likely to develop breast and prostate cancer. Men with a BRCA mutation also have a 50% chance of passing it on to their children, whether or not they've been diagnosed with cancer.
About Insurance and Privacy
Q: Will my health insurance pay for BRACAnalysis?
A: Most health insurance plans pay for BRACAnalysis. Patients typically pay coinsurance of less than 10% of the test price. Myriad will notify you before processing the test only if your coinsurance is more than $375. Call Myriad at 800-469-7423 for more details.
Q: Can my health insurance provider discriminate against me based on my BRACAnalysis results?
A: No. Federal and state laws prohibit the discriminatory use of your genetic information.