Breast Cancer Genetic Counseling/Testing
Making a Family Connection
Women with a strong family history of breast cancer, either on their mother's side or father's side, are potentially at an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future and are encouraged to consider genetic counseling.
When families have a strong history of cancer, there may be a mutation in a gene that can be identified as the cause. Gene mutations can be passed down through generations and can significantly increase breast cancer risk. Genetic testing can determine whether or not a woman has a gene mutation, her lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, how she can reduce that risk, what types of screening are needed and any other tests that would be helpful.
Who Would Benefit from Breast Cancer Genetic Testing?
A genetics consultation should be considered if any of the following apply:
A known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation in a blood relative
Personal history of
- breast cancer before age 50
- triple negative breast cancer
- male breast cancer
- ovarian cancer
- bilateral breast cancer
- two or more primary cancers (such as two breast primaries or both colon and uterine cancer)
- breast or ovarian cancer plus Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
A Family history of
- A first degree relative diagnosed with ovarian cancer or bilateral breast cancer at any age
- 2 or more close relatives on the same side of the family diagnosed with any combination of the following cancers:
- Breast (male or female)
- Ovarian
- Pancreatic
- Prostate
- Sarcoma
- Leukemia/lymphoma
- Adrenal cortical
- Melanoma
- A first degree relative with a history of pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma, Wilms tumor or retinoblastoma
Genetic Counseling & Testing
For more information about genetic counseling and testing, contact our Certified Genetic Counselors Brittany Allen, M.G.C., C.G.C., at (989) 794-2996 or Rebecca MacFalda, M.S., C.G.C., at (989) 794-2992.
