What are the risks for men who carry a BRCA gene fault?

BRCA1 does not seem to increase cancer risks for men significantly. Carriers of a faulty BRCA1 gene may be at increased risk of prostate cancer, so are advised to consider annual PSA measurements.

However, men who carry a BRCA2 gene fault are at much higher risk of prostate cancer, and if they develop cancer, it may be more aggressive. They should have annual PSA tests, and have cancer treated promptly.

Breast cancer in males is uncommon, occurring in less than 1 in 100 men in the general population. However, it occurs in around 6% of men with a BRCA2 gene fault, but usually over the age of 50. Men should be aware this can occur, but are not advised to have mammograms routinely.