Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer
You may have a family history that suggests you’re at high risk for breast cancer. Genetic testing may be a consideration if you:
- have two or more close relatives with breast cancer
- have relatives who got breast cancer before the age of 50
- have breast cancer in more than one generation in your family
- have family members who have had ovarian cancer
- are of Ashkenazi (Eastern and Central European) Jewish descent
Genetic testing should always be done within a program of genetic counseling. The program should begin with exploring whether or not to be tested. There are software programs that can help assess your chance of a genetic mutation. Counseling should continue through the testing process. Counseling should also be a part of deciding what to do based on the results.
A detailed family history plays an important role in genetic counseling and testing. The history is called a pedigree analysis. It’s very helpful to bring other family members with you for a visit to the genetic counselors. They can often help provide a detailed family cancer history.
If you decide to be tested, you may face many complicated issues. For instance, what happens if you test positive? You’ll need to decide about treatments to prevent breast cancer. You may feel more anxious about getting breast cancer. You may worry needlessly about losing your health insurance. You may also face hard challenges if you test negative. For instance, what if other family members test positive? Then you may feel survivor guilt.
There are benefits to testing, though, if your concerns are based on family history. For instance, it can be helpful if your anxiety level about cancer is high. It’s also helpful if you are considering preventive surgery such as a mastectomy. It can help you know whether taking tamoxifen is right for you.