We have heard about lifestyle changes we can make to lower the risk of developing cancer. Exercise, eating healthy, limited alcohol intake, wearing sunscreen, and not smoking. Just to name a few. But, did you know that some hereditary factors have been found to also present an increase in certain cancers?
This week (September 25–October 1) is Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer week. An internationally recognized week that shines a light on cancer risks caused by hereditary dispositions.
FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered – www.facingourrisk.org) says this about HBOC week:
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“The goal of HBOC Week and Previvor Day is to raise awareness about hereditary cancer. HBOC Week marks the transition between National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and recognizes anyone affected by hereditary breast, ovarian and related cancers, including women and men with BRCA mutations, people with a family history of cancer, breast and ovarian cancer survivors, and previvors, individuals who carry a strong predisposition to cancer but have not developed the disease.
Millions of people carry an inherited BRCA mutation or have a family history of cancer but many don’t know about their risk. National HBOC Week and Previvor Day aim to change that.”
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Many genetic mutations are at the top of the list for hereditary dispositions. These can lead to increased risk of cancer. Perhaps the most well known of the genetic mutations is the BRCA gene. This genetic mutation, in particular, is known to significantly raise the chances of a woman developing breast cancer (up to 85%) and ovarian cancer (up to 45%). In addition, it raises the chances of males developing breast cancer (up to 10%) and prostate cancer (up to 40%). Everyone has the BRCA gene, but a mutation in this gene being passed from a mother or a father can cause the increased risk. Even though breast and ovarian cancers are associated most frequently with females, this genetic mutation can pass silently down from a male in the family.
If you have a family history of cancer, most noteworthy breast or ovarian, you have the option of a genetic test to determine if you have inherited a gene mutation. It is a highly personal decision. Many individuals elect not to have it done even if there are signs that it may be in the family. But more and more people are being proactive about their health and choosing to have the test performed.
Why can genetic testing be important?
If you have a genetic mutation known to increase your risk of developing cancer, you are presented with the opportunity to be proactive. Whether that means making sure you are getting your exercise and eating healthy, or it means taking further preventative action through early screening or surgery. You can be aware of your risks and do something about it.
Below are some resources, if you are interested in learning more about HBOC and genetic testing.
My Personal Story being BRCA+:
http://www.thispositivelife.com
Sources about Hereditary Cancer Risks:
http://www.brighpink.org/high-risk-support/high-risk-resources
Support Groups:
BRCA SISTERHOOD
https://www.facebook.com/groups/brcasisterhood/
This is a closed, private group on Facebook. Requesting to join results in a screening process to assess your reason for joining. This is a very strong support group of over 7,100 women from around the world with BRCA mutations, and the women in the group are very open with sharing their journey. If you are BRCA+ or in the process of testing for it and you’d like to join the group, search for BRCA Sisterhood on Facebook and request to join.
F.O.R.C.E. Local Atlanta Network
http://www.facingourrisk.org/get-support/local-groups/georgia-atlanta.php
If you have a family history of cancer and your doctor has determined it is appropriate, the test and associated genetic counseling are covered by insurance. This makes it accessible for anyone.
Sources about Genetic Testing Coverage:
http://www.hhs.gov/healthcare/facts-and-features/fact-sheets/preventive-services-covered-under-aca/
So thankful that you wrote this and provided such thorough information… I will be checking out the sites you recommended since there is a specific type of cancer that runs in my family.