Some families carry gene changes passed from parent to child. The test analyses a blood or saliva sample to see whether you carry a known risk change such as BRCA1 or BRCA2.
Testing may be suggested if
- You have several relatives with breast or ovarian cancer
- A relative was diagnosed before age 50
- A relative already carries a known gene change
- You have had breast cancer with a strong family history
The decision to be tested is personal. Knowing your status can guide screening and prevention — but it can also bring anxiety. Genetic counselling before and after testing helps you interpret the result calmly.