Hereditary cancer is higher than average cancer risk in certain parts of the body that is caused by a pathogenic variant (sometimes called a mutation) in a gene. These pathogenic variants are typically inherited from a parent and can be passed to a child. Pathogenic variants are typically passed on in an autosomal dominant pattern meaning there is a 50% (1 in 2) chance that a child will inherit a pathogenic variant from a parent and a 50% chance they will not inherit the pathogenic variant. Even if an individual has a pathogenic variant, this does NOT mean they will get cancer. There are prevention and screening options that can reduce their risk.

Most cancer is sporadic or random (not hereditary) due to changes in our DNA/genes that happen over time that can lead to a tumor/cancer developing.  These changes are not inherited from a parent. 90-95% of cancer is sporadic/random.

Biological family members of those with a pathogenic variant should consider genetic testing themselves. PROACT includes first-degree relatives such as siblings, parents, adult children, and second-degree relatives such as half-siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, grandparents, adult grandchildren.

Even though family members can benefit from knowing their genetic cancer risk, often testing is not performed. As many as 43-85% of individuals with a pathogenic variant in their family have not had genetic testing. This can be because sometimes the information is not shared among family members or because someone is aware of the risk in the family but chooses not to pursue testing themselves. Everyone makes their own decisions about their health care, and this is OK.

Other times, a family member wants genetic testing, but the logistics are hard, or they don’t know how to navigate their insurance coverage. The PROACT solution is to simplify the process for cascade testing via easily accessed quality online information and optional low cost at-home genetic testing.

PROACT is an online platform that provides personalized cancer genetic risk information to family members of those with hereditary cancer risk. Individuals who have had a pathogenic variant identified on genetic testing can invite their first-degree and second-degree relatives to the platform to learn about genetic cancer risk and consider low-cost at-home genetic testing.

The nationally recognized members of the PROACT research team are aiming to understand whether the PROACT platform lowers the burden of cancer for individuals and their families by providing easy access to education and genetic testing. We will study how many initial patients opt to participate in PROACT, how many family members are invited to the platform, how many family members complete the education modules and how many family members choose to proceed with genetic testing.

We care deeply about cancer prevention and early detection of cancer to provide better outcomes and strengthen families. Please reach out to us with any questions

People who have an identified pathogenic variant (also known as a mutation) in a gene that affects their cancer risk are invited to join PROACT by participating Cancer Genetics clinical sites in the United States.  Participants then invite their eligible family members to enroll for cascade testing. PROACT is not currently available for individual or self enrollment.  

PROACT is not currently available for individual or self enrollment.  Eligible patients are invited by their Genetic Counselor or Cancer Genetics Physician at participating PROACT clinical sites.

If you have questions about your risk for breast cancer or are interested in genetic testing, your doctor or healthcare provider is a great place to start the conversation. They can evaluate your risk based on your health, family history, and lifestyle, and guide you on next steps like screenings or prevention strategies.

The Assess Your Risk quiz is also  a helpful tool. Originally created by Bright Pink and relaunched by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in 2023, this 5-10 minute tool provides a personalized risk assessment based on your family history, lifestyle, and genetics. To date, more than 1.8 million individuals have used this resource to better understand their risk and take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection.

If you learn that you might be at higher risk, consider speaking with a Certified Genetic Counselor. Genetic Counselors specialize in understanding inherited cancer risks and can help you decide whether genetic testing or tailored prevention strategies are right for you. Ask your doctor for a referral or find a counselor through the National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) at FindAGeneticCounselor.org.

Bright Pink’s programs, including Assess Your Risk, Brighten Up Educational Workshops, and ExploreYourGenetics.org, are now hosted by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Visit the Assess Your Risk Resources Page for tools and education to help reduce breast and ovarian cancer risk.

Additional Resources:

●      Imerman Angels: Personalized one-on-one peer support for survivors, previvors, and caregivers, including Bright Pink’s former PinkPal program. Connect with a mentor at Imerman Angels.

●      Living Beyond Breast Cancer (LBBC): Emotional and practical support for those newly diagnosed, in treatment, or post-treatment. Join Bright Pink’s former Facebook support community through LBBC.

For a full list of trusted partners and recommended resources, visit Bright Pink’s Resource Page.

Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered (FORCE): FORCE is the leading organization for individuals facing hereditary breast, ovarian, and related cancers. Bright Pink has partnered with FORCE to ensure young, high-risk women have access to tailored resources, including:

●      Expert-reviewed information to guide medical decisions.

●      Support groups and one-on-one connections.

●      Advocacy for better access to care, treatment, and prevention options.

●      A dedicated space for the Bright Pink community.

Visit Bright Pink @ FORCE to learn more and get connected.

While PROACT does not currently have specific opportunities for individual physician participation, please stay tuned for updates as our program expands.

Thank you! Financial donations can be made here.