Individuals with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing cancer compared to the general population. For instance, women with BRCA1 mutations have a 55-65% risk of developing breast cancer by age 70, while those with BRCA2 mutations have a 45% risk. The risk for ovarian cancer is 39% for BRCA1 and 11-17% for BRCA2 by age 70.