Should I get tested?

[amh6971]

Hi Guys. I am hoping someone can help.

So my Grandma on my dad’s side died of ovarian cancer in 2011 (in her 70’s on diagnosis).

My Grandma on my mam’s side was diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 40’s, she had the breast off then. In 2010 (now in her 70’s) she was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer (in the breast she had had off 30+ years prior) and she passed in Feb this year. She had also suffered with bowl and skin cancer in between the two episodes of breast cancer. Her sister died from breast cancer also and her son, my uncle, died from stomach cancer.

I lost my mum in July this year to pancreatic cancer but she also had ovarian cancer (63 on diagnosis). They originally thought the pancreatic cancer had spread to the ovaries but it was actually a different cancer.

I’ve heard that the breast and ovarian cancers can be linked.

My question is…..do you think I should get tested for the gene? I was going to get tested when my mum was first diagnosed but then covid hit and the world went mad.

Since the sad news of Sarah Harding passing, I have been thinking about it again. I just don’t want to waste my GP’s time if I am not at a higher risk than normal.

Any info would be much appreciated.

[luckysmom13]

I'm in the US, so it could be different in the UK. After my Stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis, I saw a genetics counsellor who looked at my family tree and patterns of cancer. She ordered various genetic tests (a long list) to evaluate. I was negative for all of them thankfully. Good luck!

[amh6971 in reply to luckysmom13]

Thanks for the reply.

I am sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I hope you are doing ok.

I am going to look into it. Not sure about the US with the covid pandemic but trying to see a doctor here in the UK is impossible.

[Beryl71]

I don't think your GP would think you were wasting their time. Prevention is best and with all that history you should at least get regular screening. Good luck and keep at them. Love Carolyn x

[Arisgram]

I'm sorry to hear of all your loss. You certainly have a strong familial history of cancer. The genetic test is a simple blood draw. I was approved for a prophylactic mastectomy many years ago based on my genetic status. I was afraid and didn't do it. If only I had, I could see my grandson grow up. It's not a waste of time. Please get checked.

[mariootsi]

I would suggest you get tested.

[13plus]

You definitely qualify as being at higher risk, unfortunately, with cancer in both sides of the family, but especially with more than one close family member on one side. In the US they would send you for genetic counseling and testing. Makes sure to get counseling first so you have support for how to process the information, in the event you test positive.

I avoided it in my early cancer days because I thought it would raise my anxiety too much if I was positive. So there is something to think about there but it can also help you as they will moniter you differently if you do carry a gene. (Just check in the UK what protections you have re-life and health insurance before you do any testing).

[amh6971]

It’s so scary isn’t it. I am all for prevention. I’m 36 and am lucky enough to have my children so if a mastectomy and hysterectomy are needed I would be all for it. My dad also had 2 brothers who died of cancer too so it’s strong in the family. I have no doubt that the big C will get me at some point given the strong family history so anything I can do now to prevent it I am willing to do.

I’m sorry to anyone who is currently suffering with cancer and I wish you all the best. X

[RLN-overcomer]

Sister/warrior yesssss please get tested. It is better to be safer, than sorry. I have to have the Braca test done on my next blood work. I forgo to do it 2 weeks ago. Thank you for reminding me. 😇