Diving Into The Gene Pool
I've made a decision that I suspect is going to be an unpopular one, at least among breast cancer people. But it's my decision to make. I have decided not to have genetic testing for the BRCA 1 and 2 gene mutations.
BRCA 1 and 2 are two genes that are linked with hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. Of these cancers, about 5% to 10% will be due to a mutation in one of the BRCA genes. Individuals with mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have significantly elevated risks for breast cancer(up to 80% lifetime risk), ovarian cancer (up to 40% lifetime risk), bilateral breast cancer and other types of cancers. BRCA mutations are inherited and equally likely to come from the father's side of the family tree as the mother's.
Because of the young age at which I was diagnosed, there is a high likelihood that I have a genetic mutation. But BRCA1 & 2 are the only ones that have been identified. So I could have the test, get a negative result and still have a gene mutation, just not one that has been identified. Nothing about the way my care is handled would change as a result of having this knowledge, because my doctor will already follow me closely for any signs of breast cancer recurrence, or a new primary breast cancer, or ovarian cancer, just as if I had already tested positive. I'm not ready to have a bi-lateral prophylactic mastectomy or have my ovaries removed and that is about the only other thing I could possibly do to reduce my chances if I got a positive result. I'm just not finished with those parts yet. There are also some privacy concerns that come with this test and insurance.
I've decided not to have this test for my own peace of mind. I know many people will think that is a head in the sand approach, but I know how my mind works and I'm afraid that if I test positive (there is a 6.8% chance that I would) I'd constantly be waiting for the next shoe to drop. I'm already living with that fear and I hope that it's something that will lessen with time but in this case I think ignorance is bliss. If you're related to me and concerned about whether or not you have this mutation, you can certainly get tested. It's just a blood test. It costs about $3,000 and takes several weeks to get the result.
It's entirely possible that with some distance from treatment or advances in medicine I may change my mind and decide to get tested, but until then I'm putting this issue behind me and moving onto the next. I'm ready to start radiation this afternoon even though I'm slightly anxious about the whole process. I dreamed last night that I completely forgot about it and missed my appointment. I'll let you know how it goes!
Oh, if anyone can translate the comment that was posted on "Freedom" I'd really appreciate it!
BRCA 1 and 2 are two genes that are linked with hereditary breast and ovarian cancers. Of these cancers, about 5% to 10% will be due to a mutation in one of the BRCA genes. Individuals with mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have significantly elevated risks for breast cancer(up to 80% lifetime risk), ovarian cancer (up to 40% lifetime risk), bilateral breast cancer and other types of cancers. BRCA mutations are inherited and equally likely to come from the father's side of the family tree as the mother's.
Because of the young age at which I was diagnosed, there is a high likelihood that I have a genetic mutation. But BRCA1 & 2 are the only ones that have been identified. So I could have the test, get a negative result and still have a gene mutation, just not one that has been identified. Nothing about the way my care is handled would change as a result of having this knowledge, because my doctor will already follow me closely for any signs of breast cancer recurrence, or a new primary breast cancer, or ovarian cancer, just as if I had already tested positive. I'm not ready to have a bi-lateral prophylactic mastectomy or have my ovaries removed and that is about the only other thing I could possibly do to reduce my chances if I got a positive result. I'm just not finished with those parts yet. There are also some privacy concerns that come with this test and insurance.
I've decided not to have this test for my own peace of mind. I know many people will think that is a head in the sand approach, but I know how my mind works and I'm afraid that if I test positive (there is a 6.8% chance that I would) I'd constantly be waiting for the next shoe to drop. I'm already living with that fear and I hope that it's something that will lessen with time but in this case I think ignorance is bliss. If you're related to me and concerned about whether or not you have this mutation, you can certainly get tested. It's just a blood test. It costs about $3,000 and takes several weeks to get the result.
It's entirely possible that with some distance from treatment or advances in medicine I may change my mind and decide to get tested, but until then I'm putting this issue behind me and moving onto the next. I'm ready to start radiation this afternoon even though I'm slightly anxious about the whole process. I dreamed last night that I completely forgot about it and missed my appointment. I'll let you know how it goes!
Oh, if anyone can translate the comment that was posted on "Freedom" I'd really appreciate it!
Comments
Oi, I found yours blog for google tá well interesting I liked this post. When to give gives passed for mine blog, is on personalized t-shirts, shows step by step as to create a well personalized t-shirt way. Until more.
Not that it helps. :)
Jennifer (in Charlottesville)
P.S. I completely understand your thinking on the genetic testing. Do what is right for you.
Good luck this afternoon as you begin the next phase of your treatment. I hope that this part will be easier than the chemo and go by quickly. I'm thinking about you.
Love,
Mom
Here’s the translation from the comment that was posted on "Freedom". It’s a blog from Brazil. Through the blog one can buy t-shirts and caps personalized in every ways, with a picture from a band, a person, etc…
I’m still reading your blog and wishing you good luck. Don’t be apprehensive with radiation. It doesn’t hurt. Just keep the skin hydrated with a fat cream. I think your doctor will tell you which is the best. If possible don’t wear a bra or avoid wearing it whenever possible. It will probably “scratch” your skin…
I like reading your blog and knowing how you’re doing with all that.
Keep well