preventive measures

kelleyk

Hi Everyone.

I'd like some input on my situation if anyone has any.  I am 41 and had bilateral preventive mastectomies 14 years ago b/c so many women in my family had BC:  my mother, her sister, my grandmother and her sister.  Well, my mom was recently diagnosed again with mets (liver and bone) and now I cannot get my own situation out of my head.  I have two very young children (1 & 2) and the thought scares the fire out of me.

 Does anyone know of any other preventive measures I can take at this point, other than nutrition and exercise?  I work hard on both of those, although it's been difficult with two little ones.  But, I wonder if anyone has a similar situation or knows of anything else out there.  My breast tissue was biopsied and was clear, but I know that breast tissue can be widespread reaching all the way to the abdomen.  So, I could conceivably have breast tissue cells in my body.  I did not have genetic testing as the tests were not accurate when I decided to have my surgery.  My mom has not had the testing either.

Am I borrowing worry here?  Opinions?

Thanks,

Kelleyk

mawhinney

I'd recommend that you see a breast specialist to discuss your case and risk factors. You want to see a specialist in breast care  rather than a general surgeon or gyn. Together you can develop a screening program. You might also seek a breast cancer support group where you can talk with others that understand what you are going through. You should try to find a way to relieve your stress when you start dwelling on "what ifs".  Try taking a walk, doing yoga, pop in an exercise tape, take the kids to the playground or Y, working in the garden - do something to refreshen your outlook.

Abbey11

kelleyk - With your family history, it seems like you would be a very good candidate for genetic testing.  I think you should ask your OB/GYN to refer you to a breast center where you can get that done.  If you test positive, you would have to consider your risk of ovarian cancer.  Tamoxifen can be given to high risk women as a preventative measure, and there's a lot of research about vitamin D and cancer rates.  You could get your vitamin D levels tested to be sure that you are not deficient.

I do think that you have almost eliminated your risk by having the mastectomies, though.

Good Luck!