Could My Dad’s Prostate Cancer Be Linked to His Sister’s Breast Cancer? Concern About Family Risk and Bone Spread”

Hello Concerned Daughter, this family history of breast and prostate cancer could be linked genetically. My husband has a family history of both cancers and we raised the same query with his medical team. He was referred for genetic counselling followed by genetic screening. No known suspect genes were found in his blood sample but, as they told us, there could be as yet unidentified cancer causing genes. As a result our sons have annual PSA tests and our daughters have annual mammograms. 

“Worried wife” is correct “concerned daughter” so it’s likely that you need to have all the checks that are necessary for the DNA to be fours either way. But that’s not easy to achieve and it could take time.

Although a positive DNA result might not do what you want it because it only gives you a risk factor and those are not black and white. It’s just the way it is.

I was having check’s about my suitability for a trial but some my family have chosen to get tested but we are still awaiting the start of the test after one and a half years.

All info is good in my view but it also comes with additional worry.

Good luck

Hello cD and Mr U. I think from first referral to getting the results was at least 9 months for us. Before any tests were done , we were counselled about the risks and benefits of being tested and potential impact on us and our children - both physically and psychologically. We were also advised to have repeat testing in about 5 years in case there will have been knew knowledge gained about genetics etc. 

with that in mind, would you want to know that your risks of getting cancer are higher or lower and would you want to take any action s such as regular screening, your own testing etc or would you want your children to know etc. there is much to consider!

Thanks for your responses.  I think currently we’re wondering more about how likely the bone scan he is waiting for could show bone involved considering his sisters breast cancer went to bone.  We’re hoping it won’t show any spread as we’ve been told he’s still stage T2c but at risk of T3a, just afraid they may think he’s at risk of bone spread at this point if they are ordering the scan 

Hello Concerneddaughter13fd2e84 

The bone scan is pretty standard for a T3a and they are just making sure there's no spread and to get the best treatment plan for dad.

Best wishes - Brian.