Learning About Your Family Background

Expert Quote

“All breast cancers are the result of a gene abnormality—inherited or developed over time. It's important to remember that inherited abnormalities don't have to be more serious than those that develop from the 'wear and tear' of living. How serious your situation is depends on the whole list of personality features of the cancer, as well as on your personal and family history. ”

Marisa Weiss M.D., president and founder, breast radiation oncologist, Philadelphia, PA

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You may choose to pursue genetic counseling and testing to learn more about your own genetic background and possible breast cancer risk. An inherited breast cancer gene abnormality is more likely to be present if:

• Many women in your family have had breast cancer, particularly at a young age or involving both breasts.
• There is both breast and ovarian cancer in your family.
• Men in your family have had breast cancer.
• There is breast cancer in your family, and your male relatives in that same branch of the family have had prostate or colon cancer at a young age.

Most women who pursue genetic testing find out that they do not have a specific abnormality that can be identified as putting them at increased risk for breast cancer. If you've had breast cancer and find out that you do have a breast cancer gene abnormality, it's likely that it contributed—at least in part—to the development of your breast cancer.