Testing at a glance

Comprehensive BRCA analysis

What: Testing (via blood or saliva) to find mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Cost: Can be more than $3,300 (more targeted testing can cost less). Covered by insurance? Sometimes. Where to get it? Ask your doctor.

Sources: Baptist Hospital East in Louisville, Ky. and Norton Cancer Institute

Having a genetic test may help you: Make medical and lifestyle choices. Clarify your cancer risk. Decide whether to have risk-reducing surgery. Give other family members useful information (if you choose to share your results). Understand why you or other family members have developed cancer.

But it also can have these disadvantages: No guarantee your test results will remain private. Although rare, you may face discrimination. But the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008 provides some protection when it comes to health insurance and employment. Find details at http://www.genome.gov/24519851. You may find it harder to cope with your cancer risk when you know your test results. If you find that you dont have an inherited altered gene, you may think that you have no chance of getting cancer. But you can still get cancer.

Sources: National Cancer Institute; National Human Genome Research Institute American Society of Human Genetics: http://www.ashg.org/education/everyone.shtml

Learn more American Society of Human Genetics family history site: http://www.talkhealthhistory.org My Family Health Portrait: https://familyhistory.hhs.gov American Cancer Society: http://www.cancer.org National Cancer Institute: http://www.cancer.gov

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Genetics provide cancer insight

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