Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer Ipswich | Suffolk Breast Practice

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    Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk

    Genetic testing for breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk, can help determine if you’re in the general, moderate, or high-risk category of developing breast cancer. While many people diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have any family history of breast cancer in Ipswich, genetics do play a part and can put you at higher risk.

    Determining risk levels for developing breast cancer can help to give us a general idea, but there is still a huge uncertainty as to which women will develop breast cancer throughout their lifetime. The current levels are:

    • General population: 11% risk. 1 in 10 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, with the majority of these aged 50+
    • Moderate: 17 – 30% risk
    • High: 30% risk

    With breast cancer currently the most common form of cancer in the UK, we understand how worrying it is to have any family links with the disease. At Suffolk Breast Practice, we use leading techniques for genetic testing for breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk.

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    Family History of Breast Cancer

    If you have a family history of breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk, you may be referred to the Suffolk Breast Practice for an assessment. The most likely reasons for referral include you having:

    • A close relative under the age of 40 with breast cancer
    • A family member develop bilateral breast cancer
    • Multiple relatives develop breast cancer
    • A close male relative developing cancer

    Having any of these doesn’t necessarily mean you are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, but it’s a good idea to undergo the assessment if any of them do apply. The initial genetic testing for breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk consists of a series of questions relating to your blood relatives and any cancers they’ve had.

    We offer genetic counselling to help you understand factors that increase your risk of breast cancer and test for any variant genes. You can inherit genes that increase your risk, so testing for these helps you make informed decisions.

    Some women, particularly those at high risk of breast cancer, choose to undergo risk-reducing surgery. It involves removing healthy breast tissue to significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Some women opt for breast reconstruction surgery alongside this mastectomy operation. Of course, this procedure depends entirely upon the patient’s physical condition and individual needs, not just the family history of breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk.

    If you would like to book an appointment for examination, please contact us.

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    Genetics Breast Cancer

    At Suffolk Breast Practice, we promise to provide you with the highest quality of care for genetic breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk. We’re here to support you, from the initial consultation to any follow-up service. We understand that breast cancer is an emotional subject, and we offer empathetic and impartial advice sensitive to your needs as a patient.

    If you’re curious about your risk level and are looking for genetic testing for breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk, please get in touch to book a consultation at Suffolk Breast Practice.

    The Genetics of Breast Cancer

    Genetic counselling can help you understand genetic breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk, including the factors that can increase your risk. It’s possible to inherit genes that can greatly increase your risk of developing breast cancer, such as a variant BRCA gene (pronounced as “bracca”).

    At Suffolk Breast Practice, we may request you to undergo a BRCA test to discover if you’ve inherited one of these variant genes. We must stress that the results indicate susceptibility rather than guaranteeing a future breast cancer diagnosis. For more details on the importance of breast cancer awareness, please visit our blog.

    At Suffolk Breast Practice, we provide the highest quality care and advice for genetic testing for breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk, from your initial consultation to follow-up services. We’re sensitive to your needs as a patient and offer confidential and non-judgemental consultations.

    Contact us today if you have any concerns about a family history of breast cancer in Ipswich, Suffolk.

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    FAQs

    • What is Gene Testing for Breast Cancer?

      Gene testing for breast cancer is done through the BRCA gene test. This test identifies harmful changes, also known as mutations, in the two breast cancer genes. These genes are known as BRCA1 and BRCA2.

      Gene testing for breast cancer is offered to those who are more likely to have inherited a genetic mutation. Often, this is based on a personal, or family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

    • What to Expect for Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer?

      The BCRA genetic test is a blood test performed by a doctor or a nurse. A needle is inserted into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample for testing. The sample is then sent to a lab for DNA analysis. 

      Then, you will be able to discuss your results with a medical professional who will talk you through any steps you need to take next.

    • How Is Genetic Testing Performed?

      DNA and genetic testing is complete using a small blood or spit sample. Your results should be available in a few weeks. However, some tests only take a few days, whereas others may take several months—ask your doctor once the test has been sent off.

    • Are There Resources Available for Individuals Considering Genetic Testing or Managing a Hereditary Risk of Breast Cancer?

      We encourage you to visit Cancer Research UK for further support about genetic testing and hereditary risk of breast cancer. However, please contact our specialist for advice or if you are interested in testing.