Managing Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome

Some cancers have a genetic link. Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) is an inherited condition that puts some women at higher risk for developing breast cancer, as well as other cancers. Knowing more about this condition can help you make choices to prevent or detect cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage.

MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper provides a full-service program for women at high risk for breast or ovarian cancer. Our cancer specialists work closely together to assess your individual risk and provide personalized recommendations. We empower you with tools to help lower and manage your risk while still living your life to the fullest.

Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk: What You Should Know About HBOC

HBOC is most often caused by an abnormality in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene. Here’s what you should know about this condition:

  • What it is: HBOC is caused by gene mutations, or variations, that increase a person’s risk for breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Although most cancers are not inherited, about 5 percent of people who have breast cancer have HBOC.
  • What it means for you: People who have HBOC are more likely to develop breast, ovarian, and other cancers. For this reason, people with HBOC have different screening and prevention guidelines, often requiring more frequent or more sensitive testing than those with average risk. Knowing your risks can help you follow specific early detection and prevention guidelines to reduce your risk of cancer. Learn more about our breast cancer risk assessment program.
  • What it means for your family: Because HBOC is passed from generation to generation, the diagnosis can also affect your family members. If genetic testing identifies the specific mutation causing HBOC, then they can be tested, too.
  • What steps you can take: Our breast cancer risk assessment program helps determine your risk of developing breast cancer, now and in the future. We’ll educate you on cancer prevention or risk reduction strategies, including screening exams or preventive surgery. All of our recommendations will be tailored to your specific circumstances.

Why Choose MD Anderson Cooper for Breast and Ovarian Cancer Care?

MD Anderson Cooper is one of South Jersey’s leading providers of cancer prevention, detection, and treatment services. As our patient, you’ll receive:

  • Advanced screening and diagnosis: Our breast imaging centers are designated Breast Imaging Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology. This recognition means our specialists use advanced breast imaging technologies for the most accurate breast screening and diagnosis.
  • Convenience: With offices located throughout South Jersey, you’re sure to find a cancer center that is close to you with hours that work for your busy schedule.
  • Cancer genetics testing: Our cancer genetics program determines whether you’re at higher risk for breast or ovarian cancer. If you are, we’ll work with you to explain options for screening, risk reduction and prevention. Learn more about how our cancer genetics program can help significantly reduce your risk of developing cancer.
  • Breast cancer risk assessment program: Our breast cancer specialists provide you with a comprehensive risk assessment. They also offer customized recommendations to help you prevent or detect breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage. Find out more about our breast cancer risk assessment program.
  • Team approach to cancer care: At MD Anderson Cooper, our team of cancer specialists — surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, reconstructive surgeons, and other skilled professionals — pool their expertise to provide personalized, compassionate care. Find out more about MD Anderson Cooper’s Janet Knowles Breast Cancer Center and Gynecologic Cancer Center.

Contact Us

To learn more about the HBOC management services available at MD Anderson Cooper or to schedule an appointment, please call 855.MDA.COOPER (855.632.2667).

Refer a Patient

If you are a doctor who wants to refer an HBOC patient to MD Anderson Cooper, please call 855.MDA.COOPER (855.632.2667).