Hi I've had a stage 1 melanoma, stage 2 breast cancer in the nipple and there was one in my lymph node, and a non malignant lump on my scalp , my breast care specialist is recommending gene testing due to family history , my biological cousin had breast cancer and my second cousin had cancer in her leg. I'm worried about what results might come back, she's testing to skin, breast and ovarian
Im trying to be positive but I just keep worrying 
Hi Keanzaa
My name is Debra and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line. Welcome to the online community and thanks for posting your question.
I’m sorry to hear you’re having a difficult time and feeling anxious about the genetic testing. As we learn more about different cancers, we have been able to isolate certain genes that can be used to predict whether people may be at an increased risk of developing them. This includes Melanoma and Breast cancer.
Of course, not everyone who gets cancer will have a familial or genetic pre-disposition, but if we do, genetic testing can be very helpful in determining our level of risk and so help us to reduce that risk by raising awareness, regular screening/check-ups and other preventative measures.
In melanoma the number of people with an inherited risk is around 10% but there are other possible factors too, such as age, skin type and ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, so it’s important to find out which/if any of these factors apply to you, so that you know what to do to reduce any risks.
There are a number of faulty genes that can increase the risk of breast cancer but only around 5-10% of breast cancers can be linked to them. Having one of these genes may increase your risk of cancer but it’s not a certainty, and there are other risk factors too such as age and ethnicity, so again it’s about raising your awareness so that you can take preventative measures if necessary.
It can be very worrying to be told that you’re being referred for genetic testing, however, you should be given adequate counselling and time to decide if you want to go ahead. Your genetic counsellor should be able to explain what the implications of any results of the testing may mean for you and other members of your family, which will hopefully help you decide if it’s the right thing for you.
I hope this has been helpful, but please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if you need any further information or support.
Best wishes
Debra
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email or use webchat.
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