Should You Get Tested?

The choice to get genetic testing done is always personal. Here is why I chose to get tested and some things to consider if you're thinking about genetic testing.

For me, the decision to get tested was an easy one. My father's side of the family has a strong history of cancer, especially breast cancer. Within the last few years we learned that my paternal grandmother, both my paternal aunts, and a handful of my cousins had all tested positive for the BRCA 1 mutation. This meant it was highly likely that my father had had the mutation as well. If so, then I would be at risk.

Contrary to the popular narrative, my breast and ovarian cancer risk came from my father.

I urged my dad to get tested, but he refused. If he was negative then I wouldn't have to worry. But for him he was always healthy, he worked out, and breast cancer wasn't really an issue for men so why worry. Additionally, my mom thought it was too early for me to get tested. I was 27 and she knew a positive result could change my life forever. This left me to get tested on my own. I knew refusing testing would mean possibly putting myself at risk in the long run. I would rather know and prepare than not. The evil you know is better than the one you don't!

Should you get tested?

Here are some questions to ask if you're wondering if you should get tested. Answering "yes" to three or more could mean that you are at increased risk and should consider genetic testing. Don't forget to consult with your doctor though before making any decisions.

• Have you had breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer?

• Do you have a family history of breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer?

• Has anyone in your family been diagnosed with those cancers at an early age?

• Has anyone in your family tested positive for a BRCA gene mutation?

• Are you of Ashkenazi Jewish decent?

• Are you prepared for a positive result?

Check out this site to help determine if genetic testing is right for you: https://www.assessyourrisk.org/