Posted by donnar on 01 Jul 2012, 09:56AM
Hello, I was wondering what the costs were to find out if you are carrying the Breast cancer gene. Is it expensive? Thanking you in advance, Donna xx
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Breast cancer gene
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If you have a family history and you meet the criteria (what ever that is) then it is free, if you don't meet the "criteria" then it costs $2,500 to have the testing done.
To find out if you qualify for the free testing contact your local medical/ familial genetics clinic for an appointment to see a genetic councillor.
My breast surgeon and oncologist both referred me to my local gentics clinic (and I have an appointment to see them on the 1st August, to see if I qualify for the free testing, I sure hope I do, becasue I can't afford the $2,500 to have it done otherwise) becasue they both believe there may be a geneitc component to my breast cancer (i got diagnosed at age 40, my Mum had BC at age 52, my Dad's sister at age 43, my dad's grandmother (don't know age) and my dad has prostate cancer (my oncologist says the male version of ovarian cancer, which the BRCA gene also effects).
Country ladies
Shazinoz's advice was the same as mine, except that as I live in the country and a long way from the genetic counsellors I was able to have my consultation via phone and email. Collect as much family history as you can, on both sides of your family and for all types of cancers. It was determined I didn't meet the criteria for genetic testing for free because my family history risk is low, but if I wish I can pay for it . I was personally satisfied with not having testing.
Thank you so much girls, that is really helpful. I'll follow up Donna xx
I saw the Genetics Doctor 3 weeks ago and it has been recommended that I have the testing done. It is going to cost me $1,600 and then $300 for each of my kids to be tested if I carry the defective gene, I am currently trying to save up the money, its very unfortunate that it is not covered by medicare or private health insurance. I was also advised that my kids should get life insurance before I have the tests because if I carry it they will not be able to get insurance.
Thanks for that kathryne , good point regarding kids getting insurance before you know. Yes, agree how disappointing it is that this isn't covered by our insurance, Medicare . Ill have a chat with my surgeon about it, all the best, Donna x