I’m having blood test for genetic testing on Thursday. If it comes back positive, does anyone know who will be offered tested in my immediate family? Mum and dad? I have had breast cancer in right breast 5 years ago and now it’s back in left breast. My mum has also had breast cancer, as did a great-aunt of hers. I reckon therefore it’s likely to be on my mum’s side if we have it, but not sure if my dad would be tested too? He’s in France so that makes it more difficult… Anyone who can help please do xxxxx
I have never heard of parents being tested. Usually it is the case that a mother has had breast cancer, and is found to have the BRCA gene, then the daughters get tested. Or someone’s sister will get tested.
It is worth knowing if it’s in the family, but is it useful to know if your dad has the BRCA gene? Probably more useful for your siblings to be tested.
Hi @EJBSinger , sorry you are going through this again . I’m sorry I can’t answer your question but hopefully someone with knowledge of this will respond . You could also ring the nurses on the Breast Cancer Now helpline ( 0808 800 6000 ) they will hopefully know the guidance on genetic testing .
NHS website suggests that any close relative can be tested . BRCA gene is associated with prostate cancer in men so definitely important for male relatives too .
I think when you get your results and if they are positive the genetics team advise which family members to contact and they give them a letter with all the details on for their GP, so they can get referred to the genetics team in their own right. Genes are pretty complicated, but it is the genetics teams role to inform all relevant family members. Depending on the gene, it could have further implications for individual family members. Sorry a bit of a wooly answer, but you will advised by the team, if they find a gene of concern. Best wishes.
The information isn’t clear, but I believe parents, siblings and children over 18 may be offered predictive testing. Of course I am concerned for my siblings, but I think it is important to know if it comes from my mum or dad. If it’s from my dad’s side, then his sister could be at risk, as could her 4 granddaughters. (my cousins’ kids) It’s scary to think it could affect them too