Genetic screening

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Hi, I had ductal breast cancer - lumpectomy and radio last year. Some possible family history and a year later genetics ring wanting to access family records. Now I have an appointment to talk through what next.

i just wondered if anyone else had been through this and how long everything takes.

Thanks in advance

  • 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  , 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

    HappyFeet1 xx
    Don’t be afraid to cry. It will free your mind of sorrowful thoughts. – Hopi
  • 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 Blush