What is the general population carrier frequency for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC)?

The general population carrier frequency for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) is approximately 1 in 400. This statistic primarily reflects the prevalence of pathogenic variants in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes among the general population, which are the most significant contributors to HBOC.

Understanding this frequency is crucial for genetic counseling, as it helps to identify individuals who may benefit from genetic testing and further risk assessment. BRCA mutations significantly increase the lifetime risk for breast and ovarian cancer, making knowledge of carrier frequency vital for public health and individual preventive strategies.

Other options present different carrier frequencies that do not align with the established epidemiological data for HBOC. For example, a carrier frequency of 1 in 20 is considerably higher than the acceptable prevalence in the general population and more accurate in specific ethnic groups with a higher prevalence, such as Ashkenazi Jews. Frequencies like 1 in 40 and 1 in 10 are also incorrect as they overestimate the general population carrier prevalence for HBOC, which could lead to unnecessary anxiety or testing in individuals who are not at significant risk. Thus, the selection of 1 in 400 is supported by current genetic research and population-based studies.