BRCA1-2 Genetic Testing

I recently had the test because I was diagnsed with bi-lateral breat cancer and one side had the her2 gene. Since there was alot of cancer in the family my daughter wanted it done so she could be more aware of preventive measures ...get a mam. more often and be more diligent about self-exam. I paid for the test out of pocket and considered it a gift for my daughter's future well-being. Even if you should have the gene it merely alerts you to be extra-careful. If you do it be sure to go thru a genetics consellor. What you are buying is a bit of knowledge..my test was negative and so may yours be but even if it is positive all it does it gives you a head start on prevention. I have to say compared to everything else at this this is a painless test....

I was diagnosed in November and had two lumpectomies before a bilateral mastectomy. After the first lumpectomy I had genetic testing done. I had lots of family history. My mother, aunt and cousin all died of ovarian cancer and my aunt, other aunt, and grandmother had breast cancer. I tested positive. I met with a genetic counselor first who strongly recommended the testing. My insurance covered most of the cost because of the strong family history but they would not have paid for it without the strong family history. I am really glad I had the test. It relieved me of the decision of a bilateral versus single mastectomy after they were unable to get clear margins. I am having a hysterectomy in December. One of my sisters and one brother tested positve after I had the test. The cost for second family members is much less than for first family members because the gene has been isolated. Two of my nieces have tested positive and one is having a hysterectomy. My daughter and other family members are having much more frequent testing, etc. I found it very helpful and found it didn't raise my anxiety because with my family history, my anxiety was already high. Also one sister tested negative so she has been really relieved. Anyway, I'm a strong supporter of testing. Good luck to you.

Hi, Bobbiejo. I was diagnosed in May 2002 and went through a lumpectomy, chemo and radiation. Since one of my sisters had ovarian cancer at age 50 and a first cousin had breast cancer at age 44, I decided to go for genetic counseling (the precursor for testing for BRAC1-2) to help me decide whether to have the testing done. One of my other sisters went with me since she was interested as well (she has twin daughters, age 30). After reviewing extensive family history, it indicated that we were unlikely to have these gene mutations (mostly because of the type of ovarian cancer my sister had). Based on that, both my sister and I decided not to go forward with the gene testing itself. However we felt the counseling session, which lasted over 2 hours, was invaluable. They mapped out exactly how all our female family should be followed given our ovarian/breast cancer history. I am totally comfortable with my decision not to have the testing itself, but this is very much a personal decision like so many of decisions that have to be made following a diagnosis of breast cancer. You might want to consider having just the genetic counseling as it will give you lots of information and isn't very expensive (mine was about $300 for the two of us). Seeing as you're already being carefully monitored, I can certainly relate to your wanting to move on. Good luck whatever your decision.