In this guide, we explain what your BRCA positive result means, how it affects your family, and what medical and lifestyle options are available to help reduce your cancer risk.
What Does a BRCA Positive Result Mean?
A BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation impairs your body’s ability to repair damaged DNA. This increases your risk of developing cancer over your lifetime. However, with proactive monitoring and preventive strategies, many BRCA carriers live long, healthy lives.
| Cancer Type | BRCA1/2 Carrier Risk |
|---|---|
| Breast Cancer (Women) | Up to 72% |
| Ovarian Cancer | Up to 44% |
| Breast Cancer (Men) | Increased Risk (BRCA2) |
| Prostate Cancer | Higher Risk (BRCA2) |
| Pancreatic Cancer | Elevated Risk |
Next Steps After a BRCA Positive Result
A BRCA positive diagnosis empowers you to take preventive action. Your next steps should include the following:
1. Genetic Counseling
A genetic counselor will help you understand your results, assess your risk based on personal and family history, and guide you through the decisions ahead.
2. Enhanced Screening
You’ll likely begin a more rigorous screening protocol:
- Breast MRIs and mammograms annually, often alternating every 6 months
- Transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests for ovarian cancer detection
- PSA testing and prostate exams for men
Early detection can drastically improve treatment outcomes.
3. Preventive Medication
Certain medications, such as tamoxifen or raloxifene, can help reduce the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers. These are typically recommended based on age and personal history.
4. Preventive Surgery
High-risk individuals may choose risk-reducing surgery, also known as prophylactic surgery:
- Mastectomy (removal of breast tissue)
- Salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes)
While these are major decisions, they significantly reduce cancer risk.
5. Lifestyle Modifications
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can lower cancer risk and improve outcomes:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit alcohol and tobacco
- Regular physical activity
- Balanced, antioxidant-rich diet
What About Your Family?
Since BRCA mutations are inherited, your close relatives—siblings, children, and parents, may also carry the mutation. This is where cascade testing becomes crucial. Identifying mutation carriers in your family allows them to take preventive steps early.
At NM Medical, we offer family BRCA testing packages and support throughout the testing process.
Monitoring and Support at NM Medical
NM Medical provides:
- Affordable BRCA testing in India
- Testing in Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and Nashik
- Accredited labs and NABL certification
- Comprehensive pre- and post-test counseling
End-to-end support for high-risk cancer screening
Common Questions After a BRCA Positive Result
Does BRCA positive mean I have cancer?
Should I test my children?
Can men carry BRCA mutations?
Is BRCA the only cancer gene?
Take the Next Step with NM Medical
Your genes are not your destiny, but knowing them gives you the power to act. With expert guidance and personalized care, you can make informed decisions that protect your health and your family’s future.
