Breast cancer is caused by various risk factors, and one of them is the mutation of two genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2. People who inherit these genes from either their mother or father are more prone to the disease than those who don't. Thus it is essential for you undergo BRCA gene test if you are likely to inherit these genes. This test is a blood test to check for any mutations in the DNA. From the breast cancer DNA testing, you will know whether you indeed inherit the mutation and the estimation of your risk of developing the cancer.Remember, early detection is the key to successful treatment.
Preparation
If you have been identified as a candidate for this test, there are some preparations that you need to do before the taking the test. First, you have to make an appointment with a genetic counselor to discuss about the test, such as the risks, benefits and limitations. He or she will then examine your family and medical history, estimate the risks, and summarize your options. Before meeting the counselor, it is important to get more info on your family's medical history as well as your personal medical history. Write down some questions related to the test and you can also ask your family member to accompany you during the consultation session. After the consultation, you have the right to decide whether to take the test or not.
Steps of The Breast Cancer DNA Testing
A doctor will take a sample of your blood for testing. The sample will be sent to the laboratory to analyze the DNA and this process will take several weeks. When you have received the test result, meet your counselor to discuss about it.
Expected Results
There are three possible test results, namely positive, negative or uncertain. If your test result is positive, it means that there is a harmful mutation in the genes so that you have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. To reduce the risk, you can increase the frequency of screening (e.g. have clinical breast exam every 6 months instead of once a year), try using oral contraceptives, take preventive medication (chemoprevention), or undergo preventive surgery. If the test result is negative, it means that there is no BRCA gene mutation. However, it is still difficult to draw a conclusion about your risk of developing the cancer. A negative result doesn't mean you are not at risk of having nonhereditary breast cancer.
Risks
When you undergo a BRCA gene mutation test, the risks that you will face are related mostly to financial, emotional or social implications. If your test shows positive result, you may feel anxiety, sadness, anger or other negative feelings. It can also create a strain on family relationship due to the familial genetic mutation. It is also possible that the result can lead to insurance discrimination.
Breast cancer is a disease that you can't ignore. For more information regarding breast cancer DNA testing, do visit our website.
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