The BRCA gene test is a blood test. A doctor, nurse or medical technician inserts a needle into a vein, usually in your arm, to draw the blood sample needed for testing. Your blood sample then goes to a lab for DNA analysis.
It takes several weeks before test results are available. You meet with your genetic counselor to learn your test results, discuss their implications and go over your options. Federal and state laws help ensure the privacy of your genetic information and protect against discrimination in health insurance and employment.
Aug. 22, 2013
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- Raby BA, et al. Genetic counseling and testing. http://www.uptodate.com/home. Accessed June 3, 2013.
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- Kurian AW,et al. Survival analysis of cancer risk reduction strategies for BRCA1/2 mutation carriers, Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2010;28:222.