Deciding what is right for you

The first step is coming to terms with the fact you are in the high risk category and often this is through discovering you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene fault.

Being told you carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene fault is often like being told you have a cancer that you don't have yet or may in fact never get. The BRCA1/2 gene fault can increase your risk of breast cancer up to 85% and ovarian cancer up to 65% and BRCA2 has even been linked to an increase risk for prostate cancer.

Surveillance is the most common method of screening. High risk clinics offer very good programs which include 6 monthly ultrasounds, yearly mammograms and soon to be MRI screening.

In some circumstances, women with a very strong family history, or who are found by genetic testing to have inherited a mutated copy of a high-risk gene, may wish to explore possibilities for reducing their risk of developing breast cancer, such as prophylactic mastectomy and/or prophylactic bilateral salpingooophorectomy. Women who are at significantly increased risk of developing breast cancer should be referred for appropriate counselling before any therapeutic decisions are made.

There are so many options available, it's just working out which one is right for you. Seeking advice from your health care professionals is a crucial aspect of your care as they know the appropriate standards of treatment and risk management for high risk individuals. If we empower ourselves with information and support we can make an informed decision relating to our health.

There is no method that will 100% prevent you from getting cancer. Finding the cancer early is key to improving one's survival rate. There are many methods available for lowering one's risk of breast and ovarian cancer from surveillance through to preventive surgeries. Be Breast Aware and speak to your specialists if you notice any changes. Remember early detection is the key!

Pink Hope does not provide medical advice. Please refer to our Disclaimer for more information.