Personal experience, Season 7
Understanding BRCA: Naomi’s 80% cancer risk
In this episode of the Breast Cancer Now podcast, we explore the role of genetics in cancer risk, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, specifically in Jewish populations.
I had an 80% lifetime risk of breast cancer. I never want to be told I’ve got cancer. If I can do something to prevent that, then I’m going to do that
Naomi shares her powerful story after discovering she carries the BRCA2 gene mutation following the loss of her mum to ovarian cancer. With an 80% lifetime risk of breast cancer, she faced life-changing decisions, and opted for risk-reducing surgery.
Naomi speaks about what it’s like to live with that knowledge, how it shaped her choices, and why taking preventative action gave her a sense of control. She also shares the impact of her gene mutation on her children, and how they've dealt with it as a family.
We’re also joined by Josh from Jnetics, a Jewish genetic disorders charity, who explains the science behind BRCA gene mutations, why they increase cancer risk, and why they are more common in people with Jewish ancestry. He also outlines how testing works, who may be eligible, and what support is available.
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