Genetic testing

daughter2bestmom
daughter2bestmom Member Posts: 15
in Ovarian Cancer #1

Today after nine long months my mom got a good word from the doctor "No evidence of cancer" I haven't been this happy in such a long time. Genetic testing was first brought up by her surgeon and I was all for it. It was again brought up today and it really kind of scared me this time, he was saying things like "double mascetomy" removal of ovaries. I am only 25 but both of my parents have had cancer. I know I don't HAVE to do those things, but what am I supposed to do if it comes back positive then it'll be in the back of my mind all the time.

 

Does anyone have any advice/knowledge about genetic testing?? Thanks

Comments

  • ktamp
    ktamp Member Posts: 81
    #2
    I have lynch syndrome.  It's

    I have lynch syndrome.  It's a genetic cancer causing syndrome.  I was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer 18 months before my ovarian cancer diagnosis.  I am at a risk for many other cancers.  Do the genetic testing.  A genetic predisposition for cancer can be a blessing.  While your incidence of cancer may be higher, survivabiltiy is better because of early detection.   When you know you have a genetic predisposition, you have frequent checkups and the earlier you catch cancer, the better your chances of surviving.  Because I had colon cancer and underwent genetic testing, my ovarian cancer was found during my annual recommended screening and we caught it in a stage 1.  

  • Alexandra
    Alexandra Member Posts: 1,308
    #3
    Congratulations on your mom being NED!

    If you want to learn about BRCA mutations and testing follow this link http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/BRCA or more in depth http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/genetics/breast-and-ovarian/HealthProfessional/page2#Reference2.509

    I am BRCA1 positive, my 19-year-old daughter is BRCA negative. My 67-year-old mother is alco BRCA negative (and she is a breast cancer survivor). My mutation came from my father.

    It makes sense to get your mom tested first; depending on her results then you can decide if you (and your siblings) want to get tested or not and when. Maybe you can postpone testing till mid 30's after you're finished having children.

    Bilateral mastectomy and removal of ovaries is not the only way to mitigate high risk of breast and ovarian cancer. When you meet with genetic councellor he will explain other options.

  • daughter2bestmom
    daughter2bestmom Member Posts: 15
    #4
    Thank you both, its very

    Thank you both, its very excellent advice. I'll most likely postpone the testing, having children is very important to me. Alexandra I'll read those links you posted very soon (its still a little too fresh). You're right Ktemp since my mom's diagnosis I've thought more about my health and taking care of myself better, so I think that would be the case too if I got tested.

    Best news ever mom getting NED!

     

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