Confused by family history risk?

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1

Hi.
Basically what the title says. I’m struggling to figure out whether I should see my GP.

I’m 30 and live in the UK.

I have 2 aunts on my fathers side who were diagnosed with breast cancer. I do not know if it was bilateral or not in either aunt. One was in her late 40s/early 50s and she also developed lung cancer and sadly passed away. The other aunt was in her 50s and recovered.

My younger sister (full sister same mother and father based in the USA aged 25) found a lump in her breast and was immediately send for a scan and is awaiting biopsy results. They advised her if she had any siblings then advise them to see the GP to work out risk factors. But I was wondering if that’s the case and whether it is different here to the USA.

I hope what I’ve written makes sense.

Thanks in advance.

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Hi MrsE12,

Thank you for sharing your story and expressing your concern. I am sure some of our users will be along to share their experiences and show their support soon. Feel free to have a read of our ‘Breast cancer in families’ guide here.

In the meantime you can always use our Ask the Nurse service or call our helpline on 0808 800 6000, who will be able to talk you through any questions you may have and offer a friendly ear. The opening hours are below.

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Late opening Wednesday 9am-7pm Saturday, 9am-1pm

Best wishes, 

Bonita 

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HI MrsE12! Best wishes to your sister and your whole family!! I’m also American, but I would definitely recommend that you go for an exam. I was diagnosed when I was 34. My maternal grandmother and mother both had breast cancer. The normal age in the US for women with a family history to get a mammogram is 35. Luckily, my doctor made it possible for me to be scanned early. I hadn’t even felt a lump, but she probably saved my life. Early detection is so critical. At the very least, I think it would be helpful for you to get a professional breast exam and talk to your doctor about risk factors. Best of luck! Xxx

4

I don’t it is different. It is the same way of detecting so I guess you should follow on what the doctor’s says. It is better when it is early detected and if there none then be thankful. Good luck!