Should I participate in genetic testing?

[scaredycattt]

My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 30, and passed away a few months ago at age 52. I am very worried that because she is a very close relative, I have the genes for this type of cancer. I perform self exams, but I have also been told that things like genetic testing and self exams do not cut back the rate of death from cancer. Is it important for me to spend the money on genetic testing? I have not even recieved a mammogram because my insurance will not yet cover it, and I do not want to go as far as a prophylactic double mastectomy.

[boobsareoverated]

I developed my first bc at age 32 and my second at age 44. My grandmother was the only one who had bc before me. There are many other things to look at. I was Ashkenazi Jew which ups my chances of being genetic. The early age at which I got the disease and also my grandmothers early age was also something to look at. I did test and was positive for BRCA1.

Now with that knowledge, they suggested my ovaries out before age 40 because the same gene causes ovarian cancer which there is no definitive test for till it's usually too late. I did. I did not remove my breasts at that time. I knew my chances were about 90 % that I would get bc again in the next 20 years but I also hoped for a cure. I already knew I should be monitored closely and was doing that. Saying that, I found a lump again and this time had a bi-lateral with tram-flap reconstruction. I'm now 46, my stomach muscles are my breasts, I'm post menopausal, but very much still kickin.

I have two daughters who will start mamograms and ultrasounds/MRIs at age 22. 10 years before my cancer as recommended by the doctors. The insurance will pay for it because I had it. Will they be tested, not yet as they want to have children and breast feed and they already know they have to be diligent about self exams and testing. Knowing won't change that at this time.

It all depends on what you will do with the information you are given.

Good luck and good  health!

[BJSaws]

     I don't know what your age is, but your insurance company might pay for a mammogram if your physician writes the order based on your family history.  My daughter's insurance company pays for her annual mammograms because I had breast cancer even though she is under the recommended age.  If they won't pay, it would be cheaper to pay for the mammogram yourself than to pay for genetic testing.  And, if your insurance company won't even pay for a mammogram, it is unlikely they would pay for a prophylactic double mastectomy which would certainly be an extreme measure for you to even consider with no evidence.
     If it would ease your mind and if you have the money, then genetic testing might be something you would consider.  In the mean time, just remember that if your mother had breast cancer, you will not necessarily get breast cancer.  The key to self exams and annual mammograms is early detection.  Any type of cancer that is diagnosed early gives a better chance for survival and even cure.  So keep up with your self exams and get annual mammograms even if you have to pay for them yourself.

[iam1butterfly]

I was faced with that option in 2005 when benign microscopic califications appeared on my annual mammogram. I have extensive family history of Cancer, including Breast Cancer (2 aunts on my mom' side). And, I have a sister and a cousin who both had Ovarian Cancer. I was told to seriously consider having genetic counseling which, is a statistical way of calculating one's odds for getting a particular disease based on one's family history on both the father's and the mother's side. In my mind, knowing my odds wouldn't change the outcome since I obviously can't change my genetic makeup. The decision to undergo testing is, of course, up to you. Some people want that information in order to make important informed medical decisions... like whether or not to have children and possibly handing down a disease. But, I personally didn't see the value in having the testing. To me, if I'm a likely candidate for Cancer; then, I am. And, my knowing in advance doesn't exactly give me peace of mind. So, I opted to forego that option. I suppose that one of the best measures that anyone can undertake is to be vigilant of changes in the body and have the yearly mammograms.... Best wishes to you.