Cancer risk associated with an inherited PALB2 mutation

If you have tested positive for a PALB2 mutation, we recommend that you consult with a genetics expert who can assess your personal and family history of cancer, and help you decide on a plan to manage your risk. Note that when we use "men" and "women" we are referring to the sex you were assigned at birth.

Increased lifetime cancer risks associated with a PALB2 mutation:

• Women who have a mutation in PALB2 are at increased risk for breast cancer. The estimated lifetime risk is between 40 - 60 percent.
• Women with a PALB2 mutation have an increased risk for ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer (these three cancers and their risks are related and are often referred to together as ovarian cancer). The estimated lifetime risk is between 3 - 5 percent.  
• People with a PALB2 mutation are at increased risk for pancreatic cancer. The estimated lifetime risk is about 2 - 5 percent. 
• There is unknown or insufficient evidence of risk for other cancers in people with a PALB2 mutation. 

It is important to note that cancer risks are estimates over the course of a person's lifetime. Your lifetime risk and risk over the next five years will vary depending on:

• current age
• sex assigned at birth
• specific mutation
• personal and family health history
• diet, exercise, lifestyle and other factors