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Concerns about Breast Cancer Family History Questions on genetics, family history & breast cancer. |
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| 11/21/2010 | I have a family history of breast cancer but my mother was tested for the BRCA 1/2 gene mutations this year and the results were negative. My mother had a common type of BC at the age of 34 and my sister had small cell BC at the age of 54. I was diagnosed with Stage 1 BC this year (age 46). Although all specialists/genetic counsellor agree that my risk for a new breast cancer in the opposite breast is higher than the normal population, no one will give me quantitive information about my risk. One specialist did tell my family doctor that he feels the risk is 25-30% but the genetic counsellor will not say this. In a few months I will be making a decision on whether to get a prophylactic mastectomy and I would like to really understand my risk so I can be confident of my decision. Are there any stats on a BC survivors risk of a new cancer with two primary relatives with BC and no BRCA gene mutation? | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 11/21/2010 | today there are 2 known genes-- BRCA 1 and 2. There are however other genes we believe for which there is no test for them and no data about what they entail (ie, % of risk of disease). So that's why people are telling you that given your family history that shouts out "genes!" there is no way to quantify risk for you. Giving serious consideration though to bilateral mastectomies with reconstruction is a logical way to think about this however. | ||
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