Empowering You to Prioritize Your Health
Genetic testing can be unsettling, but I encourage you to ask for the support you need from friends, family, and your healthcare provider. Understanding the results received after genetic testing gives you the power to take your life's health into your own hands. Not knowing what to expect is the hard part, but once you understand your risk of developing cancer, you can prioritize your screenings and knowledge.
I was in my early twenties when a provider asked if I'd like to get genetically tested due to my mother's early breast cancer diagnosis at age 39. I didn't know what this looked like, if I could handle what the results would say, and if I was ready. At that time, I didn't feel ready to know. I was proactive in my health and was able to receive screening mammograms at a younger age due to my mother's early diagnosis. Four years later, I found the support I needed through coworkers, providers, and family. I educated myself on what genetic testing is, what the results mean, and how to use that information to take action on my cancer risk.
My results indicated I was positive for the CHEK2 mutation that increases my risk for developing breast and colon cancer. My results didn't give me a cancer diagnosis. They set me up to prepare for a healthy life, educate myself, take action like earlier screenings, and advocate for myself and others. Genetic testing is to empower your health journey rather than scare you.
As a previvor (Someone who has a higher predisposition or risk of developing hereditary cancers like breast, ovarian, colon, prostate, and pancreatic cancer), I encourage everyone to understand their genetic makeup and have a conversation with their provider on what the next steps look like for you and your cancer risk. Everyone is made up differently, and everyone has their own cancer risk. It's important to understand that even with an increased risk of cancer, it does not mean you will develop cancer. It's meant to keep you proactive about your health, going to cancer screenings, and being your best advocate for changes in your body that are not normal. If you do develop cancer, the best outcomes happen with early detection, screenings, and effective treatment.
You may not be ready to dive into genetic testing. Still, I motivate you to reach out to someone who can support you in discussing your cancer risk and what proactive measures are best for you. Start by gathering information about your family history of cancer. Suppose you don't know where to start. In that case, you can discuss your cancer risk with your provider or The Breast Center's nurse navigator and genetic counselor at 432.221.1189.
As we acknowledge National Hereditary Cancer Week and National Previvor Day, be proactive and find your support system to help you understand your cancer risk. Here are ways to honor and support Hereditary Cancer and Previvors:
- Spread the word and awareness of hereditary cancers. Check out FORCE (Facingourrisk.org) for more information
- Contact a genetic counselor to get started on your genetic testing
- Honor those who have been affected by hereditary cancers
- Support and empower loved ones going through genetic testing or who are previvors
- Encourage others to ask about their family history of cancer and speak with a provider.