Hello, and thank you in advance. My mother passed away at age 54 of breast cancer after being diagnosed at age 49. No other family history known on African American side. Skin cancer prevalent on other side. I am 35 yo biracial African American and Caucasian ansestry. Should I consider the BRCA1/2 testing? Do doctors try to talk you out of it? I recently has my annual Pap smear and uterine fibroids were found however I have never had symptoms or problems of any sort. Will insurance cover this preventive measure?
BRCA1/2 testing - Should I consider? Mom died aggressive form?
- Asked
- 23 Feb 2017 by Marylaw
- Updated
- 25 Feb 2017
- Topics
- breast cancer, skin cancer, cancer, death, breast, diagnosis, family
Responses (2)
I did the BRACA 1/2 test after both my grandmothers dies of ovarian cancer. I have other cancer risks all over the family. The BRACA 1 and BRACA 2 are different tests which test for a total of 26, I believe, different genetic cancers. You have to qualify through your insurance for the test. They have guidelines. The best thing to do is contact your health insurance to find out if you qualify for the test. You should qualify for BRACA 1 without a problem. BRACA 2 is more difficult to qualify for and has different history requirements. Usually, the lab does the BRACA 1 and then decides from there whether to do BRACA 2 for those cancers. After you know you qualify, speak with your GYN to find a recommendation for someone who does the testing. It is a simple blood test, but it takes awhile to get results. Best of luck to you. Take care and be well.
I decided to have the brca1 and 2 genetic testing done after my grandmother (56), my sister (28) my mother (54) and myself (46) had breast cancer. Even with this history on my mothers side of the family my testing came back inconclusive. Actually my insurance wasn't involved. I was able to take advantage of a grant/study and guaranteed to pay no more than $100. There are many breast cancer support groups, medical studies and grants available. Check with your oncologist or social worker connected to your medical facility. Ask them if there are any available funds and if you're a candidate to receive them . Good luck.

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