BRCA1 and BRCA2 are example of genes which increase risk of cancer if mutated. Breast cancer and ovarian cancer are associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations which can be inherited from their parents and passed onto their offspring.

Woman who found to be positive with BRCA1 mutation has lifetime risk of 56-87% in breast cancer and lifetime risk of 44% in ovarian cancer. In men, the lifetime risk of prostate cancer is estimated at 20% for BRCA1 positivity.

Woman who found to be positive with BRCA2 mutation has lifetime risk of 56-87% in breast cancer and lifetime risk of 27% in ovarian cancer. In men, the lifetime risk of breast cancer is 6% and prostate cancer is estimated at 20% for BRCA2 positivity.

Melanoma and pancreatic cancers are also associated with BRCA2 mutation.