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DiscussionToday I will know if I have the genetic genes for cancer.
Breast Cancer | Last Active: Apr 5, 2023 | Replies (10)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Since I have a family history of breast cancer there is a genetic test to see..."
Hi @deannajean -- I agree that waiting for test results and all the uncertainties can be the worst part. I have the BRCA2 and CHEK2 mutations that both significantly increase risk of breast cancer, ovarian and others. Angelina Jolie has BRCA1. I was told a lumpectomy would get rid of my stage I cancer, but genetics may keep giving me more tumors. I could choose lumpectomy, keep up with all the routine monitoring and just keep doing lumpectomies as needed. Or I could have a mastectomy and be done with it all. That was 2013 so listen to current physician advice and data. My thought was the whole process was scary, time consuming for months, disruptive to my life and job, expensive and just a lot to go through. I didn't ever want to do it again and wanted minimal risk and worry. My family is also heavy on cancers. I opted for the double mastectomy and had ovaries and tubes removed at the same time per the oncology surgeon's advice due to BRCA2. I was 54, divorced and those parts had all served their purpose in life. My dog had no opinion. Not sure how old you are so where you are in life can impact your decisions. Please don't hesitate to get a second opinion on everything! Insurance will cover it. Did you take hormone blockers after your lumpectomy? How long before the second occurrence? I hope you don't have the mutations. Sorry you are going through this again. Please keep us posted. Prayers for you. Lori
If I were guessing, and just a guess would be brca testing. With or without this answer, I would think that the recommendation would be different for you the second time around just because it is the second time.
I will cross my fingers and toes and be waiting to hear results.💜
Will you come back and tell us what you decide?