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Triple negative breast cancer genetic?

Page last modified on: August 26, 2008
Question from PattyS: My mom had breast cancer when she was 65. I was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at the age of 50. I'm now 4 years out and doing great. Should I get genetic testing? There is no other breast cancer in our family. I have 2 daughters and am concerned about them. Do you think there are subtypes within triple-negative breast cancer? Is all triple-negative breast cancer genetic?
Answer —Terri McHugh, M.D.: You also need appropriate genetic counseling, and should be questioned about your family history of other cancers. Genetic testing is appropriate for you. We do not know if all triple-negative cancers are linked to a genetic mutation.

On Wednesday, March 19, 2008, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Breast Cancer Risk and Your Family. Carol Cherry, M.S.N., R.N., A.P.R.N., B.C. and Terri McHugh, M.D. answered your questions about how family genes affect risk, pros and cons of genetic testing, and ways to lower your breast cancer risk.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Carol Cherry, M.S.N., R.N., A.P.R.N., B.C.Carol Cherry, M.S.N, R.N., A.P.R.N, B.C. is health educator, Research Project Manager, and Cancer Risk Counselor in the Margaret Dyson Family Risk Assessment Program at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Pennsylvania.

Terri McHugh, M.D. is a medical oncologist/hematologist and director of the Cancer Risk Assessment and Genetics program.

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