BRCA Specialist

Breast Cancer Awareness.

Early identification of hereditary breast or ovarian cancer can significantly reduce your risk for developing certain cancers. At North Houston Gynecologic Oncology Surgeons in Shenandoah, Texas, Nefertiti duPont, MD, MPH, a board-certified gynecologic oncologist, offers genetic testing to identify mutations in the BRCA genes and Lynch syndrome genes.

If you carry the genetic mutation, Dr. duPont can work with you to reduce your risk of developing cancer and other genetic conditions. Call North Houston Gynecologic Oncology Surgeons to learn more about BRCA genetic testing or book a consultation online today.

What is BRCA?

BRCA (breast cancer gene) describes genes that can play a role in, most often, breast and ovarian cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are two genes that everyone has. These genes help repair damaged DNA and prevent the growth of cancerous tumors, which is why they are known as tumor suppressor genes.

However, when BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are damaged or aren’t working properly, it can lead to a mutation that causes cancer. This mutation can increase your risk for breast or ovarian cancer because BRCA isn’t repairing your DNA as it should.

How can BRCA predict breast cancer?

Approximately one in eight women develops breast cancer in their lifetime. Fifty-five to sixty-five percent of women who have a BRCA1 mutation and about 45% with BRCA2 mutations are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer before age 70.

The carrier of a mutated BRCA gene can be at an increased risk for breast cancer. They can also pass down genetic mutations to their children.

In addition to developing breast cancer from BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, you may also be at increased risk for developing cancer more than once. With a BRCA1 mutation, you may be more likely to develop triple-negative breast cancer, a type of aggressive cancer that’s more difficult to treat.

It’s important to note that early detection for breast cancer increases the likelihood of successful treatment, even with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. For this reason, Dr. duPont at North Houston Gynecologic Oncology Surgeons offers genetic testing to identify BRCA and other mutations that affect your gynecologic health.

What genetic testing services might I receive?

North Houston Gynecologic Oncology Surgeons offers comprehensive genetic testing to reduce your risk for cancer and necessary treatments when you have BRCA mutations.

Dr. duPont can also identify other genetic issues that can increase your risk for cancer, such as Lynch and Cowden syndrome mutations.

Genetic testing involves a blood test and, in some cases, a saliva sample, to evaluate your genetic makeup. When your results are ready, Dr. duPont reviews them with you and can determine how to move forward.

If you have BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, you may need more frequent preventive screenings or treatment to reduce your cancer risks.

To schedule genetic testing for BRCA gene mutations, call North Houston Gynecologic Oncology Surgeons, or book an appointment online today.