What risk do the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes suggest for women regarding ovarian cancer?

The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are crucial in the context of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. Mutations in these genes significantly increase a woman's lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. Specifically, women with a BRCA1 mutation have approximately a 39% to 46% chance of developing ovarian cancer by the age of 70, while those with a BRCA2 mutation have about a 10% to 27% chance, depending on other risk factors.

The presence of these mutations indicates an inherited susceptibility to ovarian cancer, which is why they are classified as risk factors. Therefore, women carrying mutations in either of these genes should consider enhanced screening and preventive measures, such as prophylactic surgery or increased surveillance, to mitigate their risk of developing the disease.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the implications of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. They do not eliminate risk, they do not only pertain to men's cancer risk, and they are certainly correlated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.