Hereditary breast cancer: Everyone has the right to know

It is estimated that 5 to 10% of all breast cancers are caused by a genetic predisposition. People who carry a breast cancer gene are at higher risk of developing breast cancer, often at a younger age. The risk of other cancers may also be increased, including prostate, ovarian, and pancreatic cancer.

Today, about ten genes are known to play a role in hereditary breast cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the best known and pose the greatest risk. Anyone who knows they are a carrier of a breast cancer gene can take steps, such as undergoing close monitoring or undergoing preventive mastectomy.

Plea

Our survey, conducted in 2025 among 1,000 Belgians, revealed that six out of ten participants reported having only limited knowledge about hereditary breast cancer and wanting to learn more about it. At the same time, approximately 80% indicated they would be willing to be tested for a hereditary predisposition if that would make preventive measures possible. Unfortunately, not everyone is eligible for such a test. You can only be tested if a close relative is a carrier of a hereditary breast cancer gene. That is why “ Pink Ribbon ” advocates for broader access to this genetic test. We believe that everyone with breast cancer—as well as the close relatives of people with breast cancer—should have the opportunity to be tested for breast cancer genes.

Do I want to know?

To further raise awareness about hereditary breast cancer, Pink Ribbon is launching a new video campaign during Hereditary Cancer Week, from September 28 to October 4: “Do I Want to Know?” The campaign features testimonials from people who are carriers of hereditary breast cancer genes.

We invite you to share the video as widely as possible. Because everyone has the right to know.

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If you want to learn more about BRCA genes, be sure to check out the following website !

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