﻿ Genetic Breast Cancer Testing: Facts on the Pros and Cons

Breast Cancer and Genetic Testing

Breast Cancer and Genetic Testing Introduction



Here are some questions to consider when thinking about genetic testing:

  • What are my goals for testing?
  • Whom will I share my results with?
  • Would a positive test result change relationships with my family?

What Happens During Genetic Testing?




How Do I Interpret the Genetic Test Results?




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Genetic Testing and Breast Cancer

Who Should Undergo Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer?


A woman with a family history of breast cancer has a lot of concerns. Among other things, she is thinking of her job, children, and husband, as well as how her medical insurance and health team will be able to serve her needs in the future should a crisis arise.


Overall, inherited breast cancer disorders account for a small minority of breast cancers. Genes are the "messages" in each cell of the body that determine the ultimate design of our bodies. Genes can be damaged by the environment. Additionally, people can be born with defects in the genes that remove the body's defenses against cancers. Only in about 10% of all breast cancer cases is there actually a genetic defect that can be tested. This means that 90% of breast cancers are due to other causes. In fact, most cases of breast cancer occur in women who do not have a family history of breast cancer. A complex interplay between environmental and genetic factors affect the development of breast cancer, and all the key factors have not yet been identified.