Results could take several weeks , as the test must be performed by a laboratory that specializes in the screening . Mutations in the tumor - suppressing gene BRCA1 can increase the risk of cancer . Harmful BRCA mutations can increase a woman 's risk for breast cancer multiple times . A test can help detect mutations , but can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars . Most women with breast or ovarian cancers do n't have a BRCA mutation .
Mutations in the tumor - suppressing gene BRCA1 can increase the risk of cancer . Harmful BRCA mutations can increase a woman 's risk for breast cancer multiple times . A test can help detect mutations , but can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars . Most women with breast or ovarian cancers do n't have a BRCA mutation .