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Concerns about Breast Cancer Family History Questions on genetics, family history & breast cancer. |
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| 9/14/2011 | I was diagnosed with Stage 1 IDC at age 39. It's been 5 years now, and I'm fine (yeah!). However, my elderly aunt just passed away from metastatic breast cancer, which she originally was diagnosed with in her 50's. My grandmother died of bone cancer, unknown primary, but she was elderly. No other BC history that I know of. Does any of this warrant genetic testing for me? I worry about my daughter. I know testing would not be covered in Canada, but if I felt it was necessary, I would pay for private testing somewhere. (Can you recommend a place or lab where this is done?? Is it just a bloodtest??) I don't know where to start. Thanks. | ||
| Replied | JHU's Breast Center Reply | ||
| 9/15/2011 | Congratulation on your 5 years survivorship! with a lifetime of living ahead for you! We would advise our young premenopausal breast cancer patients to undergo genetic counseling and testing. However, only a small percentage of women actually will test positive for the BRCA gene. That being said, daughters of women diagnosed at a young age are advised to begin mammogram screening ~ 10 years before the time of mother's diagnosis, so around age 30 for your daughter. Breast health vigilance is important for you both, including yearly mammograms and clinical breast exams, and breast self awareness. Because your daughter, at age 30 or so, will most likely have dense breasts, and while mammograms are advised, may not visualize the breast as well as for an older woman. The important part of the genetic process is the counseling, where you will learn what it all means, and what to do if found to be positive. In terms of where to go, a Comprehensive Breast Center would be able to direct you to an appropriate genetic counselor. Hope this helps, and best wishes. | ||
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