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BARD1 Mutations: Cancer Risk

Learn about the cancer risks associated with mutations in the BARD1 gene. Stay up to date by signing up for our community newsletter.
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Cancer Risk Associated with Inherited Mutations

If you have tested positive for a  mutation, we recommend that you speak with a genetics expert who can look at your personal and family history of cancer and can help you choose the best plan for managing your cancer risk. Note that when we use women we are referring to people assigned female at birth.

  • Women with a mutation have an increased risk of breast cancer. The estimated lifetime risk of breast cancer is 17 - 30 percent.  
  • Currently, there is not enough evidence to show a link between mutations and an increased risk of other cancers.

It is important to note that cancer risks are estimates over the course of a person's lifetime. Your lifetime risk and risk over the next five years will vary depending on:

  • current age
  • sex assigned at birth
  • specific mutation
  • personal and family health history
  • diet, exercise, lifestyle and other factors

Research on the risk for cancer in people with mutations is ongoing. 

Last updated September 19, 2024