A mother describes her distress over her daughters getting tested for a genetic mutation (BRCA) that may predispose them to the same cancer for which she was treated successfully. She knows this is not her fault, yet she feels dreadfully guilty.
The ups and downs of my health have been part of my family's normal. I've strived to be brave and funny in front of them, and to keep the lines of communication open: listening, explaining, and everything in-between.
So why does genetic testing have me rattled? Until now, it's been all about me-my needle sticks, scans, surgeries and treatments. My leg pain. My mortality.
Although my oncologist ordered this test to guide decisions about my evaluations and treatments, I know the results will have ramifications for my children, too.
As a physician, I know patients' reactions to genetic testing span a spectrum. I also know that BRCA-negativity doesn't automatically lead to popping corks and pouring champagne. Some survivors' strongly positive family histories tell the true story, and they know it. Other survivors simply replace one fear with another: that their children have a false sense of security causing them to be less compliant with routine screening.
Genetic testing is different than anything I've experienced. Why? Because in a way we are testing my children, too.
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