Get Tested & FAQs

                                                                         

Why does family history matter?

If someone in your family has had breast, ovarian, prostate, melanoma or pancreatic cancer, you could be at increased risk for cancer too—even if you're not the same sex assigned at birth as that relative.

That’s because certain genetic mutations, like those in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and other genes, can be inherited from either parent and passed down to people of any sex.

 

What do genes and DNA have to do with cancer?

Genes are like tiny instruction manuals made of DNA, and they tell our cells how to grow and repair.

 We all have two copies of every gene—one from each biological parent. Some of these genes (like BRCA1 and BRCA2) help protect us from cancer by repairing damaged DNA.

 When there’s a mutation in one of these genes, the repair system doesn’t work as well—and that can raise the risk of certain cancers.

 

How do you inherit a genetic mutation?
A genetic mutation can be passed down from either your mother or your father, regardless of their or your sex assigned at birth.

 It’s a common myth that these mutations only run through the maternal side—but that’s not true!

Mutations can come from either side of the family.

People from certain populations, such as people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, have a much higher chance (1 in 40) of carrying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation than others.

 

What happens if I have a genetic mutation associated with cancer risk?

Having a genetic mutation doesn't mean that you will get cancer - but it does mean that you have a higher risk. Knowing about a higher risk of cancer gives you and your doctor a chance to make personalized plans to reduce your risk. There is no way to "cure" the mutation but there are ways to reduce your cancer risk, like:

 

      ●      More frequent screening, like mammograms or MRIs

      ●      Preventative surgery, such as a mastectomy (surgery to remove                      breast tissue) or oophorectomy (surgery to remove ovaries)

      ●      Medications to lower risk

 

 How do I find out if I have a genetic mutation?

The only way to know for sure is through genetic testing. We’ve partnered with Color Health to make it easy—no doctor’s office or lab visit required. You’ll get a kit in the mail, provide a saliva sample (yep, just spit!), and send it back in a prepaid envelope.

 Your sample will be analyzed in a clinical lab to check for mutation in 29 genes linked to an increased risk for certain cancer - including, but not limited to, BRCA1 and BRCA2. You will also receive information on how your genes may impact certain medications.

 You’ll receive easy-to-understand results, plus the option to talk to a genetic counselor who can walk you through your results and help you decide what to do next.

 

We at Project Coffee Clutch believe that EVERYONE should have access to preventive genetic testing and counseling which is why we have partnered with COLOR health to make this step as easy as possible. We also understand that this is a personal decision and involves more than just testing. For example health insurance and life insurance eligiablity may be impacted. Always speak with family members, healthcare providers or a genetic counselor to decide what's right for you. 

Remember, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!

 

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Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

 Reliance on any information provided by this website is solely at your own risk.