Genetic testing revealed that SallyAnn Decker carried a BRCA1 gene mutation, which led doctors to discover stage 1 ovarian cancer during preventive surgery. Her case illustrates why genetic counseling and testing can be transformative for people with a personal or family history of cancer, potentially catching aggressive cancers before they become untreatable .

What Is a BRCA Gene Mutation and Why Does It Matter?

Everyone has two BRCA genes, identified as BRCA1 and BRCA2, that normally function as tumor suppressors. These genes help repair damaged DNA and prevent cells from growing and dividing uncontrollably. When one of these genes is mutated or altered, the body loses this protective mechanism, significantly increasing cancer risk .

People who carry a BRCA mutation face elevated risk for several cancer types. According to experts at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, those with a BRCA mutation have increased risk for breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic, melanoma, and in some families, colorectal cancer . For Decker, the mutation explained her two separate breast cancer diagnoses before age 60.

How Did Genetic Testing Change One Woman's Cancer Outcome?

Decker's journey began with a recommendation from her physician assistant after her second breast cancer diagnosis in November 2022. She was referred to genetic counseling and testing, which revealed her BRCA1 mutation. Armed with this knowledge, she and her medical team made a critical decision: a full hysterectomy to prevent ovarian cancer development .

The timing proved lifesaving. During the hysterectomy surgery, doctors discovered that cancer was already present in her fallopian tubes, representing stage 1 ovarian cancer. "If I would not have taken that out, who knows if they would have found that cancer," Decker reflected on the discovery . She subsequently completed six rounds of chemotherapy in October 2025 and continues to be monitored for remission.

Ovarian cancer is particularly aggressive because it typically shows no symptoms until it reaches advanced stages, making early detection through preventive measures exceptionally valuable. Without the genetic testing and the knowledge it provided, Decker's ovarian cancer might have progressed undetected until it became far more difficult to treat.

Steps to Take If You Have a Family History of Cancer

• Schedule a genetic counseling consultation: If you or close relatives have had breast, ovarian, prostate, or pancreatic cancer, ask your doctor for a referral to a genetic counselor who can assess your personal and family history.
• Discuss genetic testing options: A genetic counselor can explain what testing involves, what results mean, and how they might affect your medical decisions and screening plan.
• Share results with family members: If you test positive for a BRCA mutation, each of your siblings and children has a 50% chance of inheriting the same mutation, making family communication important for their health decisions.
• Establish enhanced screening protocols: People with BRCA mutations can benefit from more frequent imaging, such as annual MRI scans in addition to mammograms, or every-six-months screening depending on individual risk factors.

Why Family Communication About Genetic Risk Is Critical

Decker's case demonstrates the ripple effect of genetic knowledge through families. After learning she carried the BRCA1 mutation, she encouraged her siblings and extended family to pursue testing. Her niece Stacy, whose mother died of cancer at age 32, discovered she also carries the same BRCA1 mutation .

Stacy initially hesitated about testing, wondering "who wants to know?" But she now understands the practical benefit: enhanced screening options. "Without knowing I had that gene, I would have had a mammogram once a year and that's it," Stacy explained. "But I learned that I can get earlier screening. I can get an MRI once a year along with my once-a-year mammogram and there's screening every six months" .

"If you have cancer in your family you should definitely go for genetic testing, because I wouldn't be here without it," said SallyAnn Decker.

SallyAnn Decker, Cancer Survivor

Genetic counselors emphasize that knowledge empowers prevention and informed medical decisions. For Stacy, the next step involves discussing with her surgical oncologist whether her risk factors warrant preventive measures like a double mastectomy or full hysterectomy, similar to the path her aunt chose .

What Experts Say About Genetic Testing and Cancer Prevention

Dr. Kenan Onel, Chief of Clinical Genomics at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, noted that genetic testing can be transformative for families with cancer history. "If a parent has an inherited gene mutation, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting the same mutation," explained Dr. Onel, underscoring why family-wide testing conversations matter .

Dr. Onel, underscoring why family-wide testing conversations matter

"If a parent has an inherited gene mutation, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting the same mutation," explained Dr. Kenan Onel.

Dr. Kenan Onel, Chief of Clinical Genomics at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center

The key takeaway from Decker's experience is that genetic testing is not just about diagnosis; it's about prevention and early detection. For people with BRCA mutations, knowing their status allows them to pursue enhanced screening, consider preventive surgeries, and make informed decisions about their health in partnership with their medical team.

Decker's story also highlights the emotional and practical importance of family communication. While some family members initially declined testing, the knowledge that genetic risk runs in the family has prompted conversations and, in some cases, appointments with genetic counselors. For families with a history of breast, ovarian, or other BRCA-related cancers, genetic testing represents an opportunity to take control of health outcomes before cancer develops or progresses.