Newton-Wellesley Hospital oncologist, Caroline Block, MD, discusses when BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing is recommended. BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are linked to breast and ovarian cancers. By testing for these mutations, people can learn if their family history of breast cancer is due to an inherited gene mutation. Physicians may recommend BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing for patients diagnosed with breast cancer, who are diagnosed at a young age, who have a family history of breast and other related cancers, or are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.
