should I get genetic testing?

[susan0909]

My aunt (father's side) died of ovarian cancer at age 59. She was a smoker, but I do not know if that had anything to do with it. She also had three children, the first two were born when she was in her 20s. I have read that having children very late, not having them or having infertility problems may/may not be related to ovarian cancer risk. My aunt did not have those risk factors.

I also learned that my great-grandmother died of ovarian cancer when she was in her 60s. Her daughter, my paternal grandmother, was a lifelong smoker and died a few months shy of her 87th birthday. She had been diagnosed shortly before with pancreatic cancer, which I have heard can be related to smoking and possibly to one of the BRCA genes. My doctor seems to think it was just old age that caused my grandmother to develop it. I am not sure if her death is directly attributable to the pancreatic cancer or if it was simply old age and the stress of undergoing surgery at such an age.

My question is should I undergo genetic testing for the BRCA genes based on the medical history of these three relatives?  I have read that many women with these gene mutations are of Jewish descent, but I am not, so I'm not sure what to think. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[JC145]

For some peace of mind, it has been determined that there is no link between smoking and ovarian cancer ... like with lung, pancreatic, etc.

My dtrs. did not want the gene test until one went to a new ob/gyn who said I should have it done and she should as well.

I intend to speak with my Gyn/Onc this Thursday about it.  (My father died from prostate cancer .. don't know if there's any connection with my ovca.)

Judy

[ladyjogger31]

Hi Angie has given you good advise. I had it done beacuse of my Grandmother,Grandfather, Mother and Father all dying from cancer, mine was paid by my insurance company because of my family history. I think it has to be immediate family. It is a very costly test around $1500. I have two girls and wanted to make sure I didn't carry the gene. I was lucky and tested negative.
Hugs and Prayers, Terry

[Angie_Lou]

Since you are concerned enough to ask, first, speak with your primary doctor about it and ask for a phone number for a genetic counselor (hopefully covered by your insurance.)  If the meeting with a genetic counselor is not covered by insurance, be sure you feel comfortable enough to pay for it, because the genetic counselor may tell you not to worry about being tested.  If paying for that reassurance is worth it to you, go forward with a meeting.  In the meeting, everything will be discussed; family medical history, what the test is, how much it costs and if insurance will cover it, etc.

The first step is to speak with your primary doctor about your concerns and take it from there.

My best, Angie