Increased risk of breast cancer - early screening?

[MrsB902]

My mum has recently finished treatment for breast cancer and had some genetic testing done due to strong family history of this disease - thankfully it was negative for the BRCA2 gene but did conclude I’m at moderately increased risk of getting breast cancer at some point.

One of the recommendations was to discuss early screening with my GP (I’m 35) so have an appointment coming up to discuss this. I just wondered whether anyone was in the same boat and has successfully managed to get access to early screening? I guess I just want to be prepared in case they say no or ask specifically what I want to happen.

Thanks.

Yes, exactly same boat. I’m 35, mum just finished treatment for hormone positive BC, her mum had BC too (unknown type). Mum has three sisters who haven’t had breast or ovarian yet (all in 60s) so I’m at moderately increased risk. You just need to go to the GP when you’re 39 and they will put you in for yearly mammograms from 40 x

Sorry to hear you are in the same situation. Thanks though, that’s really helpful. I’m guessing you’ve had an appointment already to discuss this? Not that I think it will make a difference but I have a history of benign cysts (1 of which I’ve had to have biopsied) so hoping this may sway them to start earlier than 40. Hope everything goes well for you when you start.

Your GP cannot access early screening. They need to refer you to a breasst clinic who may refer you to genetics to assess your risk and iIF required the breast clinic will request access to screening before the age of 50

You won't get screening before 40 as guidelines start moderate risk screening from 40. This is due to density of breast Vs risk of breast cancer before 40 (which will be very very small). Mammograms don't work great either for women under 40 due to density of breast. Screening does also depend on area of the country you are in. Most places will need GP referral aged 39 to local family history breast clinic for screening to be set up. You don't need to see genetics again if they have already assessed your risk via your mum's appointment. Hope that helps

Yes I am in this position! You will get annual mammograms from 40. I had my first one this year, and thankfully all good.

I've been told I can have mammograms from 40 due to slightly increased risk of BC. But wasnt able to have the genetic testing.