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Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute



"Confronting Cancer Through Art" is an exhibition by people whose lives have been touched by cancer.


This week we are featuring artwork by:
Jacqueline Kniewasser
Pontypool, Ontario


Visit the Children's Art Gallery

This week's artwork was donated by a pediatric cancer patient who received treatment for cancer at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

NAPBC: Genetic Testing For Breast Cancer Risk: It's Your Choice

Affiliation: National Action Plan on Breast Cancer
Posted Date: November 23, 1997
Copyright © 1997, The National Action Plan on Breast Cancer

What are the limitations of the test?

Testing for breast cancer risk will not give you a simple "yes" or "no" answer. Finding a gene alteration in BRCA1 or BRCA2 indicates an increased risk of getting cancer, but it will not indicate if or when cancer will develop.

Currently, altered genes cannot be "fixed," but some day research may make it possible to prevent the disease in people who carry an altered gene.

What can I do if I have an altered gene?

If you are at increased risk for breast or ovarian cancer, you can make choices that may help reduce your risk of getting cancer or help find cancer early. Of course, you can take these steps with or without getting tested for a BRCA1 or BRCA2 alteration.

Increased surveillance: You may choose to be monitored more closely for any sign of cancer. This may include more frequest mammograms, breast exams by your doctor, breast self-exams, and an ultrasound exam of the ovaries.

Prophylactic surgery: You may choose to have your healthy breasts and/or ovaries removed. This surgery may reduce the risk of cancer, but doctors do not know by how much Because the surgery cannot remove all of the breast or ovarian tissue, some women who have chosen this surgery have later developed breast or ovarian cancer in the tissue that was left behind.

Join a research study: Because it is not yet possible to prevent cancer, you may choose to join a research study that is looking at ways to reduce cancer risk. This may entail changing your diet, reducing the amount of alcohol you drink, or trying new drugs to reduce the risk of cancer.

What we know now about cancer is due in large part to research. By taking part in a study, you could help researchers find better ways of preventing and treating cancer.

[UPHS] GENERAL DISCLAIMER
OncoLink is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice or professional services. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.
For further information, consult the Editors at: editors@oncolink.upenn.edu