Today is National Previvor Day! The CDC defines a previvor as “someone at increased risk for developing cancer, but who has not yet developed it.” I’m a proud previvor because of my BRCA2 mutation. Even though I decided to have a prophylactic mastectomy, that’s my personal choice and it’s not the right choice for everyone. Knowledge is power and getting tested for the BRCA mutation doesn’t mean that you need to have surgery if you test positive. Surveillance is just as important and strict surveillance is a great choice too. If you have any red flags that indicate a possible BRCA or any other hereditary cancer mutation, please consider getting a genetic test.

• Check out 8 red flags that might indicate a possible BRCA mutation here
• You can also take Pink Lotus Breast Center’s quiz to find out your hereditary cancer risk here
• If you want to get tested for the BRCA/hereditary cancer mutation, you can find a genetic counselor here