Bolzano – In future, carriers of the rare BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations will be able to use all outpatient diagnostic and specialist services included in the monitoring protocol for the early detection of various forms of cancer free of charge. According to the decision of the state government of November 22nd, the ticket exemption applies from January 1st, 2023.

The genes BRCA1 and BRCA2 play an important role in repairing cell damage and thus help prevent cancer from developing. In return, carriers of a BRCA gene mutation have an increased risk of developing certain forms of cancer, some of which are particularly aggressive. In general, women have a 12 percent risk of developing breast cancer, compared to 45-72 percent for women with mutations in the BRCA genes. The increased risk also affects other forms of cancer such as ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, peritoneal cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer and melanoma.

A mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene is very rare. In South Tyrol, 174 patients are currently affected by one of the two gene mutations. A specific monitoring protocol applies to them, which provides for certain preventive services and visits at regular and narrow intervals. In addition to a good prognosis in the event of illness, this should also help to reduce the fear of illness and thus the psychological burden.

From: mk