Genetic Discrim'tn Allowed in the U.S. Military

CalGal

I just read this in yesterday's (8/18/07) Los Angeles Times, page 1 ... Genetic Discrimination is allowed in the U.S. military. The federal protection laws against genetic discrimination do not apply.

While this applies to all genetic mutations, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are included.

The point of the article was that once the military finds out that a service-person has a genetic mutatation, they tend to deny health insurance and medical disability retirements. The article even states that for women who might have the BRCA mutation, genetic testing is discouraged!

The article did not state how this might effect the medical insurance of dependents ...

CalGal

Anonymous

My doctor wants me to have genetic testing but I am afraid to get the test in case it might disqualify me from getting life insurance benefits on down the road.

CalGal

Genetic discrimination is illegal in the US, except for those in the military. I made that post since I was horrified at that stance by our military, not to discourage others from getting tested (unless in the military). It applies to all sorts of genetic predispositions and diseases, such as Huntingtons, BRCA, etc.

I understand you being concerned and I was too ... I did NOT have genetic testing until AFTER my recurr bc and mets. (I then figured the genetic component didn't matter at that point since I already had bc).

In hindsight, I wish I would have gotten the test and known I was positive for the BRCA1 mutation at the start. It would have changed some of the treatment decisions I made. Quite frankly, for those who are BRCA1, there is a much higher incidence of both bc and oc at every age, much higher than those who are BRCA2, let alone the general population.

I knew I had a strong family history, but I did not know the significance of pre-menopausal bc making it more likely that I was BRCA ... or the oc risk. Despite starting mamm's at 25 (my age when my mom was dx'd at 46) and being very vigilent, it was not enough.

In my case, the only three women (grandma, mom and me) all had bc early. For some families, there have not been female relatives, so it's really quite hidden. Males can inherit and pass the BRCA mutation too. There is a 50-50 chance of one inheriting it.

Of course, it's a very personal decision ...

My recommendation is to at least meet with a genetic counselor and get all the facts and then make your decision.

Best to you,

CalGal