MD Genetic Clinic

We accept FL Medicare, FL Medicaid, Aetna First Health, and Cigna. For out-of-network insurance, a $200 flat rate applies

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome – BRCA1 & BRCA2

Evidence-based evaluation, testing, and counseling for BRCA carriers in Florida, following NCCN Guidelines.

What is Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) Syndrome?

HBOC is a condition caused by inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. These mutations significantly increase a person’s lifetime risk of developing certain cancers, especially:

Breast cancer (female and male)
Ovarian cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Prostate cancer

At MD Genetic Clinic in Florida, we use NCCN Guidelines to identify individuals at risk, arrange genetic testing, and provide personalized risk-reduction plans.

How much does a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation increase my risk?

While everyone has BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, harmful mutations impair their ability to repair DNA damage. Based on NCCN data:

Breast cancer: up to 72% lifetime risk (vs. ~13% in the general population)
Ovarian cancer: up to 44% lifetime risk for BRCA1 and 17% for BRCA2
Male breast cancer: up to 8% lifetime risk for BRCA2 carriers
Prostate cancer: higher risk, often earlier onset
Pancreatic cancer: up to 5%–7% lifetime risk

Who Should Consider BRCA Testing?

According to NCCN Guidelines, you may qualify if you have:

Breast cancer diagnosed ≤50 years old
Triple-negative breast cancer ≤60 years old
Male breast cancer at any age
Ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer at any age
Two or more relatives with breast cancer (especially early onset)
Pancreatic or aggressive prostate cancer in you or close relatives
Known BRCA mutation in the family

What does BRCA genetic testing involve?

At MD Genetic Clinic:

We take a detailed personal and family history.
We verify if you meet NCCN testing criteria.
We order a saliva or blood test through CLIA-certified labs.
We provide pre- and post-test counseling so you understand your results.

Testing is simple and can be done in our Bradenton office or via telehealth with a mailed kit.

What if my BRCA test is positive?

A positive result does not mean you have cancer — it means you have a higher lifetime risk.
NCCN-guided management may include:

Breast MRI annually starting at age 25
Annual mammogram + MRI from age 30–75
Risk-reducing mastectomy discussion
Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) between ages 35–45 (depending on gene and family history)
Prostate cancer screening starting at age 40 for men with BRCA2 (consider for BRCA1)
Pancreatic cancer screening for those with family history

We coordinate with breast surgeons, gynecologic oncologists, and other specialists to deliver comprehensive care.

Can my genetic results guide treatment if I already have cancer?

Yes. BRCA-positive cancers may respond better to:

PARP inhibitors (e.g., olaparib, talazoparib)
Platinum-based chemotherapies
Certain targeted clinical trials

We collaborate with your oncology team to ensure your results are used to inform therapy.

What about my family?

BRCA mutations are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern — meaning each first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) has a 50% chance of carrying the same mutation.

We offer cascade testing to help your relatives know their status and take preventive steps.