Prior to testing
Where can people get more information about genetic testing for cancer risk:
A person who is considering genetic testing should speak with a professional trained in genetics for advice about whether genetic testing is available for them and the pros and cons of testing. These professionals may include doctors, genetic counselors, and other health care workers trained in genetics. There is a list of all the Family Cancer clinics in Australia and New Zealand in this section.
Deciding to have the gene test:
There are many factors to weigh — some scientific, some emotional — when deciding whether or not to get a genetic test. Ultimately, the decision is a personal one, and no one can tell you with absolute certainty which choice is right for you. What genetics professionals and physicians can do is walk you through the process of testing and make you aware of the relevant issues involved so that you can make the best choice for yourself and your family.
A few points to remember:
- Firstly, it's important to understand that breast cancer is a common type of cancer. Therefore, it is not uncommon to have a family history of breast cancer. It is only some people who are at higher-than-average risk due to an inherited gene mutation in the family.
- It's also important to be aware that only about 5% of all breast cancers are caused by an inherited gene mutation for which testing is currently available.
- A strong family history' is one in which breast and/or ovarian cancer occurs over several generations, often with young women affected.
- The gene mutations known to increase breast cancer risk can be passed on by both the mother and the father, so it's important to ask about family history on both sides.
- Genetic testing is not always useful in helping to clarify breast cancer risk. To see if you are eligible for genetic testing, ask your GP to refer you to a Family Cancer Clinic.
If you are considering any kind of genetic testing it is important to be fully informed in every aspect of the test.
Genetic Testing Basic Information - things you need to know
The likelihood that breast and/or ovarian cancer is associated with BRCA1 or BRCA2 is highest in families with a history of multiple cases of breast cancer, cases of both breast and ovarian cancer, one or more family members with two primary cancers (original tumours at different sites), or an Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish background. However, not every woman in such families carries an alteration in BRCA1 or BRCA2, and not every cancer in such families is linked to alterations in these genes. In around 70% of genetic testing there is an inconclusive result (no fault found). It can also mean that the family’s particular genetic fault could be one that researchers have not found yet.
There are a lot of variables involved with genetic testing and it is very important these are discussed in detail with you Heath care professional or genetic counselor.
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