Your Choice
As we've discussed, genetic testing has many possible pros and cons. Deciding whether or not to get tested is a personal decision and can be difficult. This section is designed to help you think about which option is best for you: 1) to have a genetic test, 2) to not have a genetic test, or 3) to wait to make the decision at a later date. These options are described in greater detail below. This section also includes an exercise to help you clarify how your own personal values relate to this decision.
Remember that you can discuss your options with your genetic counselor and doctor.
Option 1: Have a Genetic Test
Genetic testing tells you if you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation or not. The results also indicate your risk for developing breast cancer and how you should manage your risk.
There are three possible genetic test results:
- Positive
- Negative
- Unclear
A positive test result means a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation was found, which increases her risk for developing breast cancer. It does not mean the woman is certain to develop breast cancer.
A negative test result means no BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation was found. Even without the mutation, the woman can still develop breast cancer due to other risk factors.
An unclear test result means it is uncertain whether the woman has the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. The test found a change in the gene that has not been linked to cancer in others.Because BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can be inherited, the test result also reveals information about Inherited Breast Cancer for your relatives.
Option 2: Not Have a Genetic Test
Without genetic testing, you will not know if you have the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation or not. You can use other risk factors (for example, family history) to find out your risk for developing breast cancer and to decide how you should manage your risk.
Option 3: Wait to Decide on Having a Genetic Test
Waiting to make a decision gives you more time to consider your options and values. You will not learn more about how your BRCA gene affects your risk or risk management.
An Exercise to Help You Make Your Choice
We have created what we call a Weighing Your Options Exercise to help you consider how your values affect your decision. This exercise asks you to weigh the many pros and cons of genetic testing to make a decision that is best for you. Click on the link below for a printable worksheet where you will rate how the pros and cons of testing relate to your own situation.
You can download the Weighing Your Options exercise here in PDF Format. You can print this exercise off and complete it at your leisure. If you do not have a PDF Reader installed you can obtain one from Adobe's website here.