Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are relatively rare in the general population but more common in certain ethnic groups. For instance, about 1 in 400 people in the United States carry a mutation in one of these genes. However, among Ashkenazi Jews, the prevalence is approximately 1 in 40. These mutations can be inherited from either parent and significantly increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers.
