Genetic Testing Criteria

Connect to people like me Family history, genes and cancer
1

Hi everyone! I’m 30 and I’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer recently. My mom’s sister (my aunt) and her daughter (my cousin) both have/had breast cancer. Thanfully my mum doesn’t show any signs of breast/ovary cancer, but I am wondering if I might be eligible for genetic testing, taking into account my secondary family history and my (what I consider at least) young age. I tried to read through NICE guidelines, but they don’t seam clear enough for me. 

I’ve asked my treating surgeon/consultant about the genetic testing and their initial response is that as I’m over 30, I’m not eligible for testing. But I don’t know how long the cancer has been there? Maybe it has started when I was 29. I also have a daughter who is 2.5 now, so I am really interested in finding out if I have faulty genes or not.

My thinking is that if I am positive, I could go for preventative double mastectomy, which could potentially improve my lifetime expectancy. At the moment I’m offered lumpectomy+radiotherapy or mastectomy on the side of the lump. 

Looking for your advice. Thank you!

2

Hi VeraK

You may find it helpful to speak with one of our clinical specialists on the Free helpline, 0808 800 6000.

Alternatively you can post a question to our expert nurses on the Ask Our Nursesarea of the Forum where they can reply to you online as well.

Best wishes
Anna
Digital Community Officer

3

Hello,
I was diagnosed back in January and have 2 radio session left (whoop whoop).
I have been offered genetic testing as my aunt has has primary breast cancer twice and my gran had it in her latter years. I was 32 when diagnosed back in January (im 33 now.) If it is something you are wanting to look in to ask to be referred by your breast nurse or oncologist. They refer you and you will complete a family tree history and this will determined if you reach the requirments for testing. I would say it would be likley due to two diagnosis excluding yourself and your young age.

I get my results on the 1st Feb … fingers crossed for good news

xxx