The Genetic Counselor Appointment

Mom had her appointment with the genetic testing counselor (I think that's what she's called). Anyway, sounds like good news, but we'll know more for sure later. Apparently they do a family history analysis first, then if Mom chooses, she can do the blood test. A friend of mine that had breast cancer did the genetic testing, as her biological mother (she was adopted) and the male twin of her biological mother both had breast cancer. Her results based on the family history were something like an 86% chance that her daughter would get breast cancer. Then when they did the blood test, it turned out that she did not carry the gene. She is certain that the replacement hormone therapy caused her breast cancer, and that's what I asked the doctor about Mom's cancer, but he quickly skirted that issue. Anyway, my sister went with Mom to the appointment, and here was her e-mail to me yesterday. . .

First I have to say that the genetic counselor lady was very nice and explained everything very well. After reviewing family history in depth and lots of discussion, she thought she would come out with a number of mom having the Breast Cancer gene to about 5% (she will have the final number later in a letter to mom). Cousins (like Anita) would probably be very likely to have it, especially if they had cancer. The number are that the general population normally has a 7% change of having breast cancer. If you have the gene (which can come from your father, as well as your mother), then you have up to a 66% chance. The fact that mom had it later in life and that none of her siblings or children have had any cancer is promising. Another fact is that the gene can affect Brad/Rob or our sons if they have it because they can be more likely to have prostrate cancer (and more aggressive).

The lady will put the information into a computer model, send a copy of the statistics to mom, and then they can have a follow-up discussion on it.

Mom did not feel worried about it. The lady said one course of action (if she were to have the gene), is that she would have aggressive testing (MRI’s and mammograms) and then the ovaries removed. An interesting fact on ovaries being removed is that they can do it lapriscoprically in most cases. (I have no idea how to spell that) That would make it less invasive if a person had to do that.

Any question…call me. I will see what I can remember. I got the booklet and DVD if anyone is interested in learning more about the testing.

Oh yeah..if you have the testing, you may not get dropped from health insurance, but buying life insurance may be more difficult. Just an FYI.

Interesting, huh? It seems the insurance companies get the last laugh anymore. . .