I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2021. At that time I had no known history of breast cancer in my family. My mum has also just been diagnosed with breast cancer, and her breast cancer nurse suggested to me that I should visit my GP to discuss the possibility of undergoing genetic screening.
I am happy to do this if it is necessary, but I wondered if just the two of us (mother and daughter) are enough to think there may be a link. We have other cancers in our family, but no known breast cancer cases.
What would you suggest I do?
Hello BJ2606
Thanks for posting.
It’s understandable you are wondering what you should do after your mum’s breast care nurse suggested you should talk to your GP about genetic testing.
You mention your own breast cancer diagnosis in 2021 and that you have a family history of other cancers but no other family members with breast cancer.
There are certain criteria that determine whether people should be tested or not. These criteria include age when the cancer was diagnosed, different types of breast cancer and the pattern of different cancers in a family.
It might be helpful for your mum to ask her breast care nurse why she was suggesting you should explore testing. Usually if there was concern that someone may carry a genetic mutation the genetic test would be carried out on the person who is being treated now. It does not sound as though your mum is being advised to have a test.
You may wish to discuss this further with your GP, or your breast care nurse who can refer you for a family history risk assessment if they feel it is appropriate. It’s helpful if you can find out as much information as possible about the other cancers in your family, on both your mother’s and father’s side, before this discussion.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you or your mum may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
The number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties prefix our number with 18001 and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
If you would prefer one of our nurses to call you. Please complete this form ticking the box agreeing to a call back.
Our usual opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am - 4pm and 9am -1pm on Saturday.
Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
We’re continually evaluating this service. If you want to provide feedback, please click the link to complete the survey . It should take approximately 10 minutes.
Best wishes
Mandy
Breast Care Nurse
Please read the disclaimer Full details on how we collect and use your data can be found in our Privacy Policy
As we are unable to monitor for further replies, this thread will now be closed. If you have any additional questions or would like to provide feedback, please start a new thread, call our helpline, email us or request a call back.