Breast cancer genetic test NHS

[ipsofacto73]

Hi
My paternal grandma died of ovarian cancer and her mother died at 42 (think cancer not sure). my paternal grand mother was half East German Jewish. There is apparently known to be a faulty breast cancer gene that is particularly prevalent in East German or Polish Jewish communities. I'm 45 would I get a NHS genetic test and mammogram? or do I have to go private. Is so recommendations and cost estimate? I'm in London. Thanks

[Middleagedmotheroftwo]

I think the gene is passed through the maternal line, not the paternal line, but not completely sure.
If I were you, I'd discuss with your GP

[thenightisyoung]

I don't know the answer to your question but I am interested as well. I have been recommended for genetic screening by a hospital doctor because of my personal and my family medical history. I also have an East German Jewish background on my father's side and was completely unaware until very recently of the increased risk. I don't know whether I will get the screening though because I don't tick all the boxes.

I believe it can pass through the paternal line.

[ipsofacto73]

Yes I too have read that it can be passed on by either parent. Does anyone know?

[paddyclampo]

It can be passed down through either parent.

Get yourself referred to the family history clinic. Even if you don't go down the route of gene testing they will offer you regular screening!

[ipsofacto73]

thanks paddy

if I opt for a private test where to go? who's good? cost?

[paddyclampo]

I'm in the North West so I had it all done at St Mary's hosp and Wythenshawe hosp in Manchester so NHS.

I didn't have any difficulty persuading my GP to refer me. Do you have any history of benign breast problems. I did and that might have helped!

[Rivercam]

I think you you can have it done in the nhs if you have a family history of bc. Go to your gp and ask.

[bonzo77]

It can be passed from either (or both) parents. Speak to your gp as you may be eligible for testing on the nhs. DH's father is BRCA2 +ve, and DH has been referred for testing. You get counselling first about the implications of a +ve.

DH's cousin (on his mother's side) has inherited BRCA1 from his own mother. His children were conceived by IVF after embryos were selected that were free of the gene.

[dorothymichaels]

I recently had genetic counselling on the NHS due to a family history of breast and Ovarian Cancer. There's a tool you can use (which is very basic) but would give you something to take to your gp. Macmillan genetics tool. For those at increased risk, the nhs offers at the very least breast screening from 40.

[paddyclampo]

Yes I got yearly mammograms at 30 - 5 years younger than my mum was at diagnosis