Tanya's Cancer Blog
March 13, 2007
I just saw my PCP and asked him if he could order the test for the BRCA gene mutation; I just had the blood drawn and should have results in a week or so. My sister is a doctor, and she saw a genetic oncologist since I have officially added “family history of ovarian cancer” to the gene pool. Yes! They suggested I get tested to see if my cancer follows genetic lines.
I just copied this from the webMD website:
“A breast cancer (BRCA) gene test is a blood test to check for specific changes (mutations) in genes that help control normal cell growth. Finding changes in these genes, called BRCA1 and BRCA2, can help determine your chance of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer. A BRCA gene test does not test for cancer itself. This test is only done for people with a strong family history of breast cancer and sometimes for those who already have the disease. Genetic counseling before and after a BRCA test is very important to help you understand the benefits, risks, and possible outcomes of the test.”
Stay informed!
BRCA test...ask your doctor about it!!!, 
4 comments)
11.07.06 
Thanks for your support - 
Does it run in your family? I didn’t get the test because I’m the first one on my family to ever get cancer, of any type. Well, except my grandmother got lung cancer at age 87 after smoking for about 70 years. I don’t think I need the gene test, but it is good that you are getting it since it runs in your family… I hear that it is especially significant if you are jewish.
You may want to look into life insurance ramifications prior to getting tested. I hear they can cause trouble if you come back positive.
Hey Samantha,
There actually isn’t any cancer in my family either, but as my doctor put it, having ovarian cancer at such a young age puts me in a high risk category so I might as well have the test. I basically asked for it, no one had recommended it. I’m going to see a genetic oncologist when I get to Maine…maybe ask about that? She’s an oncologist who also specializes in genetic testing.
About the life insurance thing…I hate insurance BTW…I spoke to someone from patient advocates, and she said a cancer diagnosis pretty much ruins my chances of ever getting a policy anyway.
Did I say I hate insurance companies??
My ranking of Evil organizations
#1 — INSURANCE COMPANIES
#2/#3 — tied: Banks/GWB Administration
Tanya-We have been lurking since getting your blog. You are all in our thoughts and prayers and I have learned a great deal (even from this distance). We will miss you at our wedding if you are here longer let us know. Since it is on your birthday—we will be thinking of you. Much love—Colleen and Keven