mutant gene testing anyone?

julie5

I am sorry if this was already asked but there are so many post to look through. I am happy to say that I finished my chemo 2 weeks ago. I will start radiation soon. I was wondering if any one else has been told this, it would be a good idea to get genetic testing. My oncologist called it a mutant gene and he wants me to get genetic counseling and testing to see if I am predisposed for cancer. I have stage 2 breast cancer. He told me that it is unusual for a woman of my age to get breast cancer (44) He said that the average age is 65. I guess if I have this gene then they would want to remove my ovaries maybe remove my breasts (I had a lumpectomy). He was telling me all of this and I was thinking maybe I don't want to know if I have this gene!!  He said the test cost in the thousands,  which I don't have. Has anyone gotten this test or been asked to get it? Is it unusual for a 44 year old to get breast cancer?

TifJ

Julie- I was disgnosed at 44. My oncologist insisted on the genetic testing. He said anyone under 50 should be tested and especially if you are triple negative and have multi-focal cancer. Do you have insurance? Most companies will cover it at your age. I had to wait for about a month to get the results. I am BRCA1 negative and BRCA 2 showed a "variant of unknown significance". That basically means there is a difference in the gene, but it is unknown if it causes cancer. My onc treats me as negative for both.

Yes, we are considered young for BC, but I have seen so many women on these boards much younger. There seems to be no rhyme or reason for who gets it. Best wishes to you!!