Oct 13, 2009 6:14 pm US/Eastern
Genetic Testing Can Unveil Breast Cancer Risks
HOLLYWOOD (CBS4) ―
Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer. It's well-known that if you have a family history, you are at higher risk for the disease. Those patients can now learn their risks through genetic testing.
The problem is, for some, undergoing testing is a tough decision to make.
When Cristina Bracho learned she had breast cancer, she had a lot of decisions to make. "My doctor told me when I got cancer he said because my history of my mother having breast cancer and dying before the menopause; it was very high risk that I was going to get it, too."
The doctor suggested the 38-year-old Aventura resident that she undergo genetic testing. "It's a very important test when you select it and offer it carefully," explained oncologist Dr. Carmen Calfa with Memorial Breast Cancer Center in Hollywood.
Calfa said patients must meet a certain criteria before they can receive genetic testing specifically having a family history of the disease. The results of the test can be both a blessing and a curse.
"Knowing that if you do have the gene mutated in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes your risk of breast cancer can get as high as 70 or 80-percent in a lifetime; therefore, many of the physicians will counsel toward bilateral mastectomies," added Calfa.
That's exactly what Bracho decided to do after her genetic testing. "I have to take out the other breast because to live, I don't want to have that ghost that I'm going to have again the cancer."
While some people choose not to have the testing, Calfa said it can give others peace of mind. "If that woman knows ahead of time that she has this gene, she can plan accordingly."
Patients who know they carry the breast and ovarian cancer gene can better manage risk with increased surveillance through regular exams and mammograms and reduce risk through chemo prevention and preventive surgery.
To learn about Memorial Breast Cancer Center and the test,
visit their website here.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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