Genetic screening

hello! I was tested for brca gene mutation. I was offered a counselling session pre blood test about implications of a positive result. The test results typically take around 6-8 weeks (can be longer) alth can also be quicker (3-4 weeks) if requested / necessary. There are lots of different mutations, so worth asking what you are being tested for and the consequences. I was also asked about the rest of my family and the need to discuss implications with them. 
I remember I felt quite calm about it as there’s not much you can do. I hope you are all right. Definitely make sure you speak to somebody experienced and are properly supported. Good luck x 

Thank you. It’s come as a bit of a shock as it’s a year after treatment finished. But really helpful to know a bit more about the process. Thank you 

Hi Crwban , I’ve been through genetic screening but at my request. I had asked when I first received my biopsy results showing oestrogen positive IDC, whether there could be a connection with my mum’s similar cancer but was told not. Several years later I asked again and requested a referral. Long story short…. Questionnaire received and sent in; appointment 3 months later - counselling session, blood taken that same day; 3 months later - telephone appointment with results which showed negative for BRCA but positive for ATM. This carries a moderate risk for breast cancer and is likely why I got it. However I was ‘lucky’ in that even within ATM mutations there are degrees of severity/ risk and I have a lesser one. I filled out a further questionnaire which, once analysed, brought my risk down a bit due to other factors relating to onset of periods and current health/ lifestyle. So overall a sort of positive experience although I’d obviously hoped there was no genetic component. 
I think the timescales vary a lot according to area too. It’s definitely worth asking what they’re testing for if you get to that point as apparently if I’d been tested back when I was diagnosed in 2018, they likely wouldn’t have tested for ATM at that time. And I think also that the more variants they’re testing for, the longer it takes. 
Good luck with it all, love and hugs, HFxx

I had genetic testing when diagnosed last year due to my age (33) but it all came back as negative for any of the genes