General information for people with inherited BARD1 mutations
Both men and women can carry a mutation in the BARD1 gene.
Women who inherit a BARD1 mutation have an increased risk of breast cancer. Research on whether inherited BARD1 mutations increase the risk for other cancers has been inconsistent. See our Cancer Risk section for more information.
Currently, there is not enough evidence on how best to manage cancer risk in people with a BARD1 mutation. See our Risk Management section for more information.
People with a BARD1 mutation who have been diagnosed with cancer may qualify for specific treatments or clinical trials. Visit our Cancer Treatment section for more information about treatment options for people with a BARD1 mutation.
The name BARD1 stands for "BRCA1 Associated Ring Domain 1." BARD1 is located on chromosome 2. The BARD1 gene works with BRCA1 to repair damaged DNA. Although the two genes work together, the effects of a mutation are different; people with a BARD1 mutation do not have the same cancer risk as people with a BRCA1 mutation.
If you are a person with an BARD1 mutation, you can find peer support through the following resources:
- Register for the FORCE Message Boards to connect with others who share your situation. Once you register, you can post on the Share Your Mutation board to connect with other people who carry an BARD1 mutation.
- FORCE's Peer Navigation Program will match you with a volunteer who shares your mutation and situation and provide you with a free resource guide.
- Contact the FORCE impact leaders in your area to link to local support groups and other resources.
- Attend a virtual support meeting in your area.
- Read the stories from members of our community.