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BRCA Genetic Testing

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BRCA genetic testing checks for gene mutations (changes) that could raise your risk of breast and ovarian cancer. People with certain risk factors, like a strong family history of breast cancer, may benefit from knowing their BRCA status.

If your provider has recommended genetic testing, you probably have many questions. Am I ready to know my results? What would the results mean for my family and me? Our skilled genetic counselors support you, answer your questions and help you make important health care decisions.

At Trinity Health Michigan, we perform the most advanced genetic tests that look at several different breast cancer genes.

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Interested in BRCA Genetic Testing?

To learn more about BRCA genetic testing, please contact your primary care doctor for a referral.

Need to find a physician?

Find a Trinity Health Michigan provider, today.

BRCA Genetic Testing Locations

BRCA Genetic Testing at Trinity Health Michigan: Why Choose Us?

Only a small percentage of breast and ovarian cancers are due to BRCA gene mutations. We help you determine if testing is right for you. We may also discuss screening for other breast cancer gene mutations, such as the PALB2 gene.

Our expert geneticists stay up to date on the latest breakthroughs in genetics. You receive compassionate care from genetic counselors who walk you through your results. After you meet with our genetic counselors, you will know what your results mean and how you can take charge of your health. For example, you may decide to have more frequent tests to check for breast cancer. Learn more about our mammograms and breast cancer screening.

Breast cancer genetic testing can stir up emotions or cause stress. We’re here to help you through these challenges. You have a team of experts on your side who want what’s best for you and your family.

Breast Cancer Genetic Testing: What We Provide

Breast cancer genetic testing isn’t recommended for everyone. Our experts may recommend BRCA testing if you have:

  • Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish descent
  • Close relative with breast cancer in both breasts
  • One or more men in your family diagnosed with breast cancer
  • Strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer on one side of your family

Choosing to have genetic testing is a personal decision. If you and your provider decide to move forward with testing, we will walk you through each step:

  1. Risk assessment: You meet with one of our genetic counselors, who performs a risk assessment. This test involves talking about your family history and other breast cancer risk factors.
     
  2. Decision making: We answer your questions as you decide whether to get tested. We also help you get information about insurance coverage or cost. Our genetic counselors will not pressure you into testing.
     
  3. Testing: If you’re ready to have the test, we take a blood or saliva sample. Our team sends your sample to a state-of-the-art genetic testing facility. Test results are expected within a few weeks.
     
  4. Discussing results: Our genetic counselors meet with you again when your results arrive. We discuss what the results mean and possible next steps you can take.
     
  5. Follow-up care: We help coordinate your follow-up care, if needed, with breast cancer specialists or other providers.