The BRCA Gene: What You Should Know About Breast Cancer Risk And Genetic Testing
I am not thrilled.
That was the first thought that came to mind during my recent appointment for a mammogram, especially after the ultrasound technician insisted on smashing my boobs between the machine's two plates like my breast was a Panini.
“Ma'am, they don't flatten," I finally managed to utter as I held my breath.
That remark must've earned me a referral because there I was in another doctor's office. I swear the technician had adjusted the knobs on the mammography machine until a speck appeared on the image. It was no secret I was already prone to cysts, usually harmless fluid-filled masses that randomly develop on either side. Doctors say they could come from one too many caffeine beverages, like my daily venti caramel frappuccinos, but they are unsure of the actual cause. I've had several cysts aspirated and analyzed throughout the years, and the results have always come back benign, or non-cancerous.
Still, my doctors were concerned because I'd lost my mother to breast cancer when she was only 46. She had received her second diagnosis earlier that same year.
Because of my family history and my issues, the breast specialist asked me if I would be interested in taking the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic test.
I had never heard of it but she explained that it was used to see if I possibly “inherited" breast cancer from my mother. BRCA1 and BRCA2 refer to breast cancer susceptibility genes, which repair cell damage and help our breast cells grow normally. Any variation in these genes can increase the likelihood of developing both breast and ovarian cancers. The genetic test screens for the mutations, which can be passed from one generation to the next.
The breast specialist also warned me that the test was costly and that most times insurance companies refuse to cover it. But since I fell within the high-risk parameters, I didn't have to pay anything out-of-pocket. There are also a few at-home testing options, ranging from $99 to $249.
The in-office genetic screen is administered as either a blood test or the “swish" test. I opted for the latter, which required me to rinse my mouth and spit the Scope-like solution back into a cup. My doctor would then send it off for an analysis. But I had to wait an hour because I was chewing gum and remnants of anything in the saliva could skew the results.
I called a friend to pass time. “Are you f--king crazy?" she asked. “Why'd you wanna do that? I'd just wait and take my chances."
I was initially taken aback and wanted to ask her how it was crazier than opting to play roulette with my life if I didn't have to.
But I kind of understood her reaction. I knew another young lady only a few years older than me who was in my predicament – a family history and abnormal breast imaging – but she outright refused the test. She wasn't prepared for bad news and everything that could come with it, like treatment and mortality.
However, I was already being pricked every few years or so and I played the five-day wait game to hear my results. I can't say I was used to it but it sort of became routine for me, although an uncomfortable one.
I had done my research. I knew the statistics.
1 in 8 women would receive a breast cancer diagnosis in her lifetime.
Breast cancer is more likely to affect white women but if black women are diagnosed with it, we're more likely to succumb to it sooner rather than later, especially if it's the more aggressive triple negative breast cancer that tends to strike us. I committed it all to memory.
Yet, I decided to be proactive and figure out how to prevent the disease if necessary, than be diagnosed with it later on and worried sick about my survival.
I was going to take the test and my results like a G.
I waited about a week for a callback. My test results detected “no known mutation." However, it didn't mean that I never have to worry about breast cancer; it only meant that I didn't inherit “bad genes" and my chance of developing the disease isn't any more than the average woman.
Still, I was subjected to a technician twisting my boobs into obscene angles because of the pesky cyst that was too deep within dense tissue to aspirate. But just not as frequently as I would had my test results been unfavorable.
Granted, it may seem like the BRCA genetic test was a waste of time and money because, ultimately, I still have to undergo the usual screenings regardless of the outcome. But there have been amazing strides in research and technological advancements. For example, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 test was once only useful for women of Jewish descent. But in 2015, the American Cancer Society published a study that found that 12.4% of the young black women (meaning under 50) who had the aggressive triple negative breast cancer, also had the mutation. It's the type of information that could help save their daughters' lives.
But while the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic test results aren't always definitive for all forms of breast cancer, it still proves to be an invaluable tool for black women and it does offer some insight into the future state of our breast health.
For more information on the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic screen, or to determine whether the test is right for you, consult with your physician first.
Featured image by Shutterstock
- BRCA1 gene - Genetics Home Reference - NIH ›
- BRCA Genes and Breast Cancer - YouTube ›
- Genetic Test Results: What to Do if You've Tested Positive ›
- BRCA Genes - 23andMe ›
- 10 Things to Know About BRCA Genes | Texas Oncology ›
- BRCA: The Breast Cancer Gene - National Breast Cancer Foundation ›
- BRCA1 and BRCA2 | Susan G. Komen® ›
- BRCA mutation - Wikipedia ›
- BRCA gene test for breast and ovarian cancer risk - Mayo Clinic ›
- BRCA Mutations: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing Fact Sheet ... ›
I write about lifestyle and women's health and wellness. When I'm not in front of a computer screen crafting stories, I'm in a kitchen crafting cocktails. Follow me on the 'gram @teronda.
The Fall Staples It Girls From Coast To Coast Are Already Wearing
When it comes to trends, It girls lead, they don’t follow. Keeping one finger on the pulse of fashion and the other on their instincts, it’s their innate ability to dress to the beat of their own heart that makes them stand out amongst everyone else around them.
These women are ahead of their time, forecasting what will eventually be adopted by the masses often years in advance. In most cases, buying into trending items is just a by-product of their love of fashion, however, it's never the key ingredient of a memorable outfit.
As we transition from summer to fall, there’s no need to spend too many coins curating a brand new seasonal wardrobe, especially in this economy. Instead of shopping targeted ads, we interviewed fashion-forward influencers to spark our imagination and gather insight on what they’re already wearing leading into the upcoming season. Keep scrolling to get the scoop on essential items these fashion-forward women are looking forward to wearing this fall.
Helecia Williams, Houston
Comfort
Helecia’s style in three words: “Structured, bold, and explorative.”
Helecia’s outfit inspiration: “I am most interested in comfort as a trend. I am truly enjoying the mix of flats with elevated outfits and the incorporation of street-style elements into the looks. I have seen so much juxtaposition that makes the outfits interesting and intriguing. I love the pairing of fitted caps with [suits] and ballet flats. That mashup is impeccable, and we saw some of that peeking through last fall, and now it's taken on a life of its own.
"As a sneaker lover and comfort sneakers, bringing back flats is just a reimagination of past trends with a fresh twist.”
What color(s) is on Helecia’s fall mood board: “Hands down, red! It's such a bold and bossy color. Now, we see it becoming much more accessible in fashion and realize how easy it is to style and incorporate into a look for that extra pop. It also pairs well with so many other shades and tones. Some of my favorite combos are red and burgundy, red and yellow, and red and brown. Even if you aren't fully convinced that it's the color of the season and still have reservations about it, you can go classic and incorporate it in an accessory or makeup like a red lip.”
Are you bringing anything back from your 2023 fall wardrobe? “I will be returning and recycling all of my 2023 fall wardrobe and just styling it differently or giving it new life. Despite my love for trends, I've curated a wardrobe that I love so I will mix the old in with the new. And not to toot my own horn but a lot of my fashion moments are ahead of the times and still very relevant for this upcoming fall. Expect to see tons of texture, juxtaposition, unexpected color combos, and street style.”
How Helecia is accessorizing this season: “I hate to admit it, but the one trend that has me in a chokehold this fall is bold jewelry, particularly in gold. I've realized that accessories can do wonders, and the Schiaparelli era has me shook. I am a ‘Stan’ of Shop Khoi, a Black-owned jewelry brand that creates some of the most amazing, high-quality fashion jewelry. It just sets off any outfit no matter how simple it may be and easily becomes a conversation piece.”
Courtney Blackwell, New York City
Courtney’s style in three words: “Vintage, oversize, and sexy.”
Courtney’s most anticipated fall fashion items: “The fashion item I am anticipating wearing is vintage leather in all colors!”
Courtney's color picks for fall: “Cherry reds, forest greens, and different shades of gray.”
The trend that has Courtney in a chokehold this season: “Skirts! I’ve never been a skirt girly, well mini skirts girly, but I think I’m going to step it up with the minis this fall.”
Shaniqua Jordan, New York City
Timeless
Shaniqua’s personal styling tip for fall: “I hate to admit it, but the one trend that has me in a chokehold this fall is any oversized outerwear piece, especially oversized blazers. And as basic as it may sound, I can't get enough of them. They instantly elevate any look, and they're so versatile, whether I'm going for a polished vibe or something more casual. Plus, they are perfect for layering as the weather cools down.
"I know most people wouldn't typically opt for suede, but if you've been following my style, you know I'm all about my outerwear. I love adding texture to my looks, even if it's subtle, and a good suede jacket does that for me. The soft texture and rich hues of suede add that cherry on top for any fall look. Whether I'm rocking a bomber style in a jewel tone or a tailored trench in a neutral shade, a suede jacket is one piece I'm looking forward to wearing to elevate my fall wardrobe.”
These colors are all over Shaniqua’s fall mood board: “The colors on my fall mood board are rich earth tones like deep browns and olive greens paired with classic neutrals like camel and cream. I'd like to throw in a pop of butter yellow. I know it might seem more spring-like, but I love how it pairs with deep browns, oxblood, and even grays. It's the perfect way to brighten up those cozy, moody fall vibes. I'm also loving pops of bold jewel tones like emerald and burgundy to add a bit of luxe to the season. These shades give that cozy yet elevated feel I'm always aiming for in my fall wardrobe.”
Shaniqua describes her fall wardrobe in three words: “If I describe my fall wardrobe in three words, they would be chic, layered, and timeless. I love combining unique pieces with a classic touch, creating looks that stand out without trying too hard. It's all about finding that perfect balance between staying true to timeless fashion and adding my own signature flair.”
Are you bringing anything back from your 2023 fall wardrobe? "I am definitely an outfit repeater, so not only will I bring back pieces from my 2023 fall wardrobe, but I also have so many oldies but goodies that I’ll be incorporating into my fall 2024 looks. I think that's what really helps convey my personal style; buying pieces I genuinely love and being able to work them into my style season after season. It's all about longevity and staying true to what I love."
Alasia Allen, Los Angeles
Provocative
Alasia describes her style in three words: “Opulent, sleek, provocative.”
The fashion item Alasia anticipates wearing the most this fall: “I’m really into gloves this season. Whether it’s biker style or long, sleek, leather gloves, they add an interesting take to a fall look.”
The fall colors catching Alasia’s eye: “I’m loving navy or a super deep purple this season so I’ll be adding those into my wardrobe. They’re both so sophisticated and a good alternative to black.”
The fall staple Alaisa plans to bring back from her 2023 wardrobe: “Every year, I wear a shearling coat. It’s timeless, it’s warm, it’s my thing. There’s something very elevating about shearlings that have drawn to me year after year, and that’s what makes them my favorite style of outwear.”
The accessory that has Alasia in a chokehold this season: “Boots. I love a good boot as my go-to accessory for the fall/winter season. My favorites are boots that have a little flair to them and an interesting shape.”
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Here's Why Taylor Russell's Red Carpet Style Is Unmatched
Taylor Russell is an actor-model-director-baddie who has quickly become a favorite of fashion enthusiasts. With her unique style and edgy attitude, Russell is making waves on both the red carpet and the streets.
Beginning her professional acting career in 2012, Taylor Russell made her debut in a minor role on the CW medical drama series Emily Owens, M.D. She further showcased her talent in the 2014 Lifetime television film The Unauthorized Saved by the Bell Story and the Disney XD television film Pants on Fire.
Russell's acting repertoire extends beyond these roles, as she has notably portrayed characters in critically acclaimed films such as Bones and All (2022), Waves (2019), and The Heart Still Hums (2020). Her background in dance has influenced her acting style, and she began acting professionally as a teenager after taking an acting class. With her diverse experiences and impressive performances, Taylor Russell has established herself as a versatile and talented actress and director in the entertainment industry.
Best of all, the Canadian-born actress' red carpet looks are often daring and experimental. She is not afraid to take risks, and she often wears pieces that are unexpected and unconventional.
In her street style, Taylor is more relaxed and casual, but she still manages to look effortlessly chic. She often wears oversized clothing, such as baggy jeans and hoodies, but she always adds a touch of glamour with her accessories. For example, she might pair a simple T-shirt and jeans with a designer handbag and a pair of statement earrings.
Taylor's unique style has made her a muse for fashion designers and stylists. She has been featured in numerous magazines, and she has walked the runway for some of the biggest names in fashion. It is clear that Taylor is a star on the rise, and her fashion journey is sure to be one to watch.
Let’s run back some of our favorite looks that solidify the actress as a fashion icon.
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