Genetic Testing

Some good news in the midst of the junk... my genetic testing results came back normal! I was tested for 8 gene mutations associated with breast cancer. The most well known genetic mutations for breast cancer are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, but there are several others that I was tested for as well, many of which are associated with other types of cancer as well including ovarian, lymphoma, melanoma, and uterine. 

All results came back normal which means I do NOT have a proven genetic mutation and there is no reason to think I'm at higher risk of breast cancer recurrence or another instance of breast cancer in the future. I can move forward with plans for a lumpectomy after my chemo treatments and do not need to worry about more aggressive surgery or treatment at this time. 

Of course, there's always the chance I do have a genetic mutation that the scientific community hasn't identified yet. Statistically, only 1 in 227 women in their 30's are diagnosed with breast cancer, so my situation is pretty rare. And the genetic counselor said that there must be other factors that have led to my developing cancer at such a young age. There's just no way of knowing what those may be. 

I'm grateful for this "good" news for now, since a BRCA gene mutation would have pushed me to consider a mastectomy or double mastectomy to reduce my risk of recurrence. For now, I can focus on moving forward with my treatment plan and adjusting my lifestyle to reduce my risk in other ways, such as dietary changes and eliminating chemicals from my life by way of cosmetics and cleaning supplies.