Question

Genetic tests that detect mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 oncogenes are widely available. These tests reveal a number of mutations in these genes - mutations that have been linked to familial breast cancer. Assume that a young woman in a suspected breast cancer family takes the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic tests and receives negative results. That is, she does not test positive for the mutant alleles of BRCA1 or BRCA2. Can she consider herself free of risk for breast cancer?

Answer 1

Answer:

No she cannot say she's free of risk for breast cancer

Explanation:

Having mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are inherited risk factors for breast cancer. However, there are other risk factors for breast cancer which could be dietary, environmental, race, age, gender, hormonal/physiological etc.