Cancer affects the lives of many people across the world. In fact, you may not even know it, but I’m sure that someone in your life has been affected by cancer in some way, whether personally experiencing the disease or having a loved one be diagnosed with cancer. This quote holds true to many of those who have or are battling cancer, as well as some of the people closest to them – “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have”. Cancer rips at the soul, taking pieces that can never be replaced. It’s a tough journey to take on, to say the least.
While many forms of cancer such as breast cancer are commonly talked about, others aren’t as well known by those not affected by it. Ovarian cancer is one of those and while commonly associated with breast cancer, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are found in 15% of women that have ovarian cancer. Those suffering from ovarian cancer can get BRCA testing in a Doctor’s office or lab with a simple blood or saliva sample. Most insurance plans cover this testing, so I would encourage anyone to take the test as it can play an important role in how you manage your care for ovarian cancer.
Here are some important BRCA facts that I’ve copied for you.
- Women with BRCA gene mutations have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- In the general population, 1.4 percent of women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, while up to 40 percent of women with BRCA 1/2 mutations will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in their lifetime.
- An estimated 15% of ovarian cancers are linked to BRCA mutations.
- BRCA gene mutations can play a key role in serous ovarian cancer, the most common form of ovarian cancer.
- Nearly one half of women with ovarian cancer who are BRCA-positive have no significant family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
Cancer is a scary thing to think about, let alone having to deal with. It’s various forms can affect anyone and once you hear those words, your life is forever touched. However, I’ve known several cancer survivors who have fought an amazing fight and showed the world that they will not allow cancer to defeat them. “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.” That saying holds so true because you have to take each day as it’s own and like it’s your last. Enjoy the beauty in the world around you, while educating yourself and others.
If you are affected by ovarian cancer, know that you are not alone. Stay positive and hold your support system close. Let them fight your fight with you! And if you know someone who’s been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, show your support and let them lean on you in their time of need.
