BRCA1 stands for BReast CAncer gene one, and BRCA2, or BReast CAncer gene two.
The function of these genes is to keep breast cells growing normally and to prevent any cancer cell growth. But when these genes contain abnormalities, or mutations, the abnormal genes are associated with an increased breast cancer risk. Abnormal BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes may account for up to 10% of all breast cancers.
Women diagnosed with breast cancer who have an abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene often have a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or both. However, it's important to remember that most women with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.
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