With regard to genetic testing, I would like to share the advice I received
from the social worker in charge of the testing program at one of the Breast
Centers in my city.

Age of onset of the cancer is important in addition to family history.  If the
cancer occurred pre or post menopausal is important.  The type of breast cancer
may be important.  History on both father/mother side of the family is
important.  

In addition, there are lengthy pre/post counseling sessions that are required.
The results you're looking for may also have ramifications for people you
hadn't even thought about....your cousins, parental siblings etc.

On the up side, once one person in a family is tested, other people in the
family can be tested for a nominal fee.  However, they all go through the
intensive counseling.

Even though my great aunt on my father's side died of breast cancer, her
daughter had a double mastectomy and my aunt on my father's side was diagnosed
and treated at 83, my sisters chose not to be tested.  My cancer occurred post
menopausal and puts them at a much lower risk level.  

Regular mammograms are still a good benchmark.  I had my first at about 36 and
continued every 2 years until I was 50,  After 50, it was every year.  My
cancer was picked up on the 51 year film.  

The same radiologist had read the films for a number of years and didn't see
the change until then although it had most likely been there for 7-10 years.

Hope this helps

Sassy

"Alex" <akoffman@attbi.com> wrote in message >> > Mary gave you excellent
advice, also have you thought about being tested for

I forgot to say that I'm in UK and have no medical insurance, it's not
normally necessary here.

But I can't see the point, at my age, of having a gene test.

Mary