As October draws near, the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to the forefront, shedding light on the significant impact of breast cancer on people’s lives. Alarmingly, breast cancer continues to affect a significant number of individuals in the US, making it a prevalent health concern. Ensuring widespread access to early detection methods such as BRCA gene tests remains a critical concern, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. In 2023, it is estimated that 297,790 women and 2800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. If breast cancer is caught in its early and localized stages, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%, which is why early detection is important.

Alexandra Murdoch, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Early detection will come from imaging, such as mammograms and MRIs, and other screening methods. An important and insightful screening method is testing for BRCA 1 and 2.”

BRCA is the breast cancer gene, and some people carry gene mutations. People with a BRCA mutation have higher lifetime risks of developing breast cancer, and they are more likely to develop a second cancer if they are diagnosed and overcome breast cancer. According to GlobalData, about 0.25% of the population carry a BRCA gene mutation.

Rates of BRCA 1 and 2 testing have increased in recent years, largely because of lower costs and increased public awareness. However, many healthcare systems have rules in place surrounding who is allowed to get tested for the genetic mutation. Often, the test is only offered to patients who are higher risk, such as those who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or those who do not know their medical history due to adoption.

Murdoch concludes: “As we navigate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is imperative to recognize that early diagnosis is the cornerstone of combating this pervasive disease. While awareness efforts are undeniably vital, true progress lies in breaking down barriers to ensure that everyone, regardless of their risk factors or medical history, has equitable access to life-saving genetic insights through tests like BRCA 1 and 2 screening.”