AIBU To Say What Was The Point of Me Living a Healthy Life

[ZaraW]

It's nearly ten years since I was diagnosed with breast cancer and I was doing OK with the odd scare along the way which turned out to be nothing. In that time I've cut out junk food have it very occasionally along with the odd glass of wine, exercise and generally lead a pretty dull life.

Yesterday I got genetic test results (I'm not in the UK and was never offered testing until it was suggested by a doctor). I have a rare mutation which told me there was 100% chance I would get cancer by the time I'm 70. And now I find out there are at least seven cancers I'm susceptible to. I'm asking myself what's the point of living a healthy lifestyle when I had no control over the disease?!

And if you do have an increased risk of developing cancer and Alzheimer, then I do think this should be your time.
Definitely enjoy as much as possible now and don't leave anything for later. Just in case.

Having said that, there's some evidence that Alzheimer can be helped by mental stimulation, social stimulation, healthy diet, exercise.
So, one more good reason to continue your healthy lifestyle and to keep physically and mentally active, rather than think that you have a death sentence.

Lewiji It was an oncologist but one I saw at a different hospital not my permanent doctor. My mum was diagnosed at 40. When first diagnosed I did ask about genetic testing but was told no. It was only when my GP offered a few months ago I knew it was available. My dad has Alzheimers he has always been unhealthy and confines to drink alcohol every day. He just doesn't care.

The only good thing is that as time passes and medical science impoves then a lot of these diseases will be cured or made far more controlable.

Bur trying to live well, excerise, diet etc never does any harm.

He just doesn't care.

Genetic testing can be a blessing and a curse, as you've found out. You've already had breast cancer, so genetic testing won't help you much there, anyway. The benefit will be that you should be offered frequent screening for the other types (and BC) that you are at increased risk for. These high risk cancers can be very nasty and early diagnosis does increase the chance of survival.

Have you talked with your children about them being tested?

Thing is though OP, cancer is very common as there are so many different types. It's very likely either you or someone you know has had or has cancer. My mum and FIL had cancer (FIL had two seperate types the greedy bugger) and MIL is currently being treated for cancer. I've had a couple of scares too. Like a PP said, by being healthy you have probably saved yourself form lots of other preventable disease like heart disease, diabetes etc. Also by being healthy and knowing your body you can recognize signs and symptoms of disease much quicker and so catch them early.

Mirrivan you don't have to understand this is what I'm going through. Hopefully you'll never have to experience it. I'm leaving now. Thanks for the advice and support.