Here’s the reality: about 1 in 400 women carry a BRCA gene mutation, but their lifetime risk of breast cancer can skyrocket up to 60 to 70 percent — compared to just 12.5 percent in the general population.And it doesn’t wait until old age. Many women under 50 — some in their 30s, even their 20s — are already facing tough, life-changing choices about surgeries, screenings, and their future.
They are called previvors — women who are taking control of their health before cancer has a chance to strike.In this episode, they are speaking with Eva Silverman, she’s a Riot Girl from New Jersey by way of Oakland and discuss what it means to live with the gene, the emotional and medical challenges behind every decision, and how awareness can quite literally save lives and what it’s like to be one bad ass taking charge doing so.
She talks about having procedures to lower her risks of getting cancers that come along with the gene mutation. You may be surprised it’s not just breast cancer that comes with the BRCA gene!
Trigger warning: they’ll be sharing details about anatomy and mental health. Please listen with care and know you’re not alone in this conversation. They will share resources and practical steps you can take right now to protect your health and support the people you love.
🧬 Genetic Risk & Testing Information1. National Cancer Institute (NCI):Overview of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, testing options, and risk percentages.🔗
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/brca-fact-sheet2. American Cancer Society (ACS):Information on inherited breast cancer risks, prevention, and screening for high-risk women under 50.🔗
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention.html3. FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer EmpoweredOne of the most comprehensive communities for previvors. Offers peer support, clinical trial info, and local groups.🔗
https://www.facingourrisk.org/💪 Previvor & Support Communities4. Bright PinkFocused on prevention and early detection for young women at risk for breast and ovarian cancer.Includes tools for risk assessment and proactive health management.🔗
SharsheretProvides culturally sensitive support for young Jewish women and families facing BRCA mutations — though open to all.Offers free genetic counseling and peer support programs.🔗
https://www.sharsheret.org/6. Susan G. Komen Foundation – BRCA Gene ResourcesDetailed explanation of BRCA mutations, family risk factors, and screening recommendations.🔗
https://www.komen.org/breast-cancer/risk-factor/gene-mutations-genetic-testing/brca-genes/📊 Data & Research7. JAMA Network Study – Age-Specific Risks for BRCA1/2 CarriersShows how cancer risk increases sharply for BRCA1 carriers in their 30s–40s and BRCA2 carriers in their 40s–50s.🔗
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/26325038. Breast Cancer Now (UK-based, excellent data summaries)Explains how gene mutations affect women under 50 and discusses ongoing research into early detection.🔗 https://breastcancernow.org/information-support/facing-breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/brca-gene-mutations🩷 Emotional Health & Decision Support9. Young Survival Coalition (YSC):Designed for women diagnosed or at risk under age 40. Offers peer networks, retreats, and online support.🔗
https://www.youngsurvival.org/10. The Previvor Community on FacebookPrivate, moderated support group with over 30,000 members sharing experiences, surgery stories, and resources.Search “The Previvor” or visit: 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/groups/theprevivorThe Breasties
Good Morning Gloucester 