Comprehensive Breast Care: Learn Your Genetic Risk Factors
The Comprehensive Breast Program at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women includes a staff of dedicated genetic counselors who help identify patients who have a greater chance of developing breast cancer and possible other cancers because of their personal and family history. Our genetic counselors also provide resources and support to you and your family so you can make informed decisions about genetic testing for breast cancer and other inherited diseases.
Many individuals ask: What is a genetic test for breast cancer? A blood or saliva sample can help our staff examine an individual’s DNA to determine if he/she has an inherited gene mutation that can increase the risk to develop cancers. Certain inherited gene mutations can sometimes increase a woman’s risk to develop breast cancer up to 85% during her lifetime.
If an individual is found to have an inherited gene mutation identified through genetic testing for breast cancer, there is discussion about how to screen that person more closely to detect cancer at an early stage. Genetic counselors and doctors will also discuss possible risk-reducing options to help lower the risk of developing certain cancers.
A breast cancer risk assessment and genetic testing can help you develop a breast cancer screening and management plan with your doctor. Take this short breast cancer quiz to learn more about factors that could possibly put you in the high-risk category.
