It is normal to feel anxious and worried if you have tested positive for your BRCA gene testing. There is no denying that these harmful gene mutations can increase the chances of developing certain cancers. 

Luckily, the odds of having a BRCA gene mutation are pretty small. An estimated 0.5% of the world’s population carries the mutated variant of BRCA. In easy words, only one out of every 500 people. Even if you have tested positive for the BRCA gene test, there are always some workarounds to do. 

Moreover, it is essential to remember that most people who carry BRCA gene mutations do not always develop cancer. And, for those who do – early detection, diagnosis, and medical plan make it easier to overcome cancer. Read on to learn what to do if your BRCA gene test results are positive. 

Make An Early Detection Plan 

People with BRCA gene mutations risk developing certain cancers, including breast and ovarian cancer. Mostly, women are at a higher risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. On the other hand, men with gene mutations are most likely to develop prostate cancer. 

But, the good news is with the positive result from your BRCA gene testing, you and your doctor can create a personalised early detection plan to lower the chances of cancer. Here are some steps you can include in your early detection plan; 

For Breast Cancer 

• Daily self-exam for breast cyst
• Mammogram
• Clinical breast exam
• Look for nipple tenderness or lump around the breast
• Changes in breast skin texture
• Limit the alcohol consumption 

For Ovarian Cancer 

• Get a CA-125 blood test
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• Pelvic exam
• Look for abdominal bloating 
• Consume carotenoids 
• Drink green tea

For Prostate Cancer 

• Prostate-specific Antigen Test (PSA) 
• Digital rectal exam (DRE)
• Decrease calorie intake 
• Incorporate lycopene-rich foods 
• Avoid alcohol and smoking 
• Eat more fish and calcium 

Go For Preventative Surgery 

Even though some people consider this extreme, people with BRCA mutation should undergo preventative medical surgery to lower cancer risk. 

The type of surgical operation you undergo depends on the stage of your cancer. Most cancers are treatable if they are diagnosed early. 

Here is a deeper look at what preventative surgeries you should choose depending on your cancer; 

For Breast Cancer 

If you are at risk of developing breast cancer through BRCA mutations, it is better to go for a double mastectomy. It’s the surgical removal of both breasts to prevent cancer from growing or spreading. 

There are two types of mastectomies; you can get the entire breast removed surgically. On the other hand, you can leave the skin and nipple to promote breast reconstruction in the future. 

For Ovarian Cancer 

Ovarian cancer is preventable and treatable if it’s diagnosed in the early stage. Depending on the spread of ovarian cancer, you may need to remove the following parts surgically; 

• If cancer has spread across ovaries and fallopian tubes, you may have to go for bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.
• If it has spread across your lower abdomen – from the opening of your vagina to the womb, you will have to go for an abdominal hysterectomy. 

For Prostate Cancer 

Medical surgery is an excellent option for treating any cancer. Hence, preventative surgery for prostate cancer if you have a gene mutation is helpful. The surgery is called “Radical Prostatectomy,” where the prostate glands, surrounding tissues, and lymph nodes near it are removed.  

Final Words

A storm of decisions, confusion, and emotions comes with a positive result from BRCA gene testing. Feelings can go from anger to guilt, to fear, and to sadness. Whatever your case, early detection and preventative surgery can save many lives.