Hormone Therapy & BRCA1 / BRCA2 Genes

Question:
“BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes carry a high risk of breast and ovarian cancer. When giving hormone therapy, how do you prevent these genes from mutating and causing cancer?”

Answer:
This is an important and very valid question.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are inherited genetic mutations—they do not develop or mutate because of hormone therapy. Individuals who carry these genes already have an increased lifetime risk of certain cancers, regardless of whether they use hormone therapy.

When hormone therapy is considered in someone with a known or suspected BRCA mutation, safety is addressed through careful, individualized medical decision-making, including:

• Comprehensive medical and family history review

• Risk–benefit assessment specific to the individual

• Use of the lowest effective hormone dose, when appropriate

• Avoidance of hormone types or delivery methods that may increase risk

• Close clinical monitoring and regular screening

• Coordination with oncology or genetics specialists when indicated

Current medical literature shows that hormone therapy does not cause BRCA mutations and, in some situations, may be used safely under medical supervision. Decisions are never one-size-fits-all and depend on factors such as age, cancer history, type of hormone therapy, route of administration, and overall health.

For those interested in reviewing scientific research, here is a relevant article from PubMed that discusses hormone therapy and cancer risk:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41403285/

Because genetic risk is complex, the best next step is to book an appointment with a Nurse Practitioner. This allows for personalized medical guidance based on your history, concerns, and risk factors.