Hollywood Star Angelina Jolie and Business Manager of Dr. Leonard Hochstein’s office found out that they carry the hereditary BRCA1 mutation cancer gene giving them a 80% chance of Breast Cancer and a 45% chance of Ovarian Cancer in their lifetime. This is often why women have their ovaries taken out and their breast removed to reduce the chance of cancer, although this is a personal choice. Even young women should be aware of their family medical history for potential cancer.
Angelina Jolie’s announcement that she had a preventative double mastectomy to cut her risk of breast cancer raised both awareness and questions about the gene that led to her decision — BRCA1, the same gene Dr. Hochstein’s Business Manager Michelle has been battling for two consecutive years.
Angelina‘s mother Marcheline Bertrand’s, passed in 2007 after a seven-year battle with ovarian cancer. It was then when Angelina decided to proceed forward with the double mastectomy. It has been about three months since Angelina has had the operation and it is amazing that she was able to share with the world what she has gone through.
Michelle has been avid on spreading awareness & knowledge to family, friends, and patients. She believes that early detection is vital. However in May of 2011, Michelle was blindsided by a diagnosis: Stage 3C Ovarian Cancer. At that time, Michelle found out that she too carried the BRCA1 mutation gene.
So what is the gene, and how can it increase a woman’s risks for breast and ovarian cancers?
What is BRCA1?
BRCA1 and BRCA 2 are types of tumor-suppressing genes. In normal cells, those genes help stabilize the cell’s DNA and help prevent uncontrollable cell growth. But harmful mutations in BRCA genes can lead to breast or ovarian cancer.
How can you tell if you have BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations?
A blood test at a hospital or doctor’s office can help detect BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations and the testing can take several weeks for the results to come back, as the test must be performed by a laboratory that specializes in the screening.
It is very important to get tested! DON’T DELAY SEE A DR. TODAY!
Recommendations for a Gynecological Doctor
Dr. Jacob Tangir
Hollywood Office
954-602-9723
The Center for Gynecologic Oncology
3850 Hollywood Blvd, Suite# 1-B
Hollywood, Fl 33021
Mirmar Office
954-602-9723 Office 954-602-9724 Fax
12741 Mirmar Park Way
Suite 302
Mirmar Fl,33027
954-602-9723