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Brac gene

Jones
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Hi my husband has the BRAC gene discovered after his colon cancer was removed and bloods showed something not right six months later I do not understand why it did not show earlier on a scan taken after the bloods it showed his cancer had spread to numerous parts of his body due to having this gene he is having palliative Chemo at present to slow the cancer down .

After the chemo finishes he is been told he has to take a tablet to help with the BRAC gene .

Can you help me to understand this better ?

  • Hi Jones

    Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the Macmillan online community. I see from your profile that you have joined some of our forums. I hope you are finding them supportive.

    I’m sorry to read about your husband’s cancer having spread.

    We know of the risk factors for bowel cancer. Within these risk factors are genetic conditions.

    You mention the BRAC gene. I am unsure if you mean the BRCA 1/2 genetic mutations or the BRAF genetic mutation.

    The BRCA gene is normally associated with a higher risk of ovarian, prostate, breast and pancreatic cancers. It is not routinely looked for in colon cancer.

    The BRAF gene mutation is one of the mutations that is looked for in bowel cancer cells.

    I’m sorry that you do not feel you understand what has happened. We would encourage you to speak to your husband’s treatment team and get clarification of what gene mutation they tested him for and the impact it has.

    On the support line we do not have access to anyone’s medial notes or NHS systems and to ensure that you get the correct information you should speak with the treatment team.

    After you have the information, if you wish to discuss it further then please feel free to get back in touch.

    Best wishes,

    Fiona M,

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

    Ref/HC

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