Cancer Genetics Program Archives

Commentary: “Genetic counseling prior to and following testing is critical”

March 14, 2018 Leave a Comment

On March 6, “F.D.A. Approves First Home Testing for 3 Breast Cancer Mutations, With Caveats” ran in the New York Times:

“The Food and Drug Administration for the first time has authorized a genetic testing company to offer screenings for three breast cancer mutations common in Ashkenazi Jews, giving consumers the ability to initiate testing at home and see results without talking to a doctor or counselor.”

When Should a Woman Consider a Preventive Mastectomy?

May 14, 2013 Leave a Comment

Actress Angelina Jolie announced today that she recently underwent a preventive double mastectomy after finding out that she had the “breast cancer gene.” Jolie’s mother died of breast cancer at age 57. Preventative or prophylactic mastectomy—the removal of breast tissue—may be one of several options available to women who are at increased risk for developing breast cancer, explains Kristin L. Brill, MD, Program Director, The Janet Knowles Breast Cancer Center at Cooper Cancer Institute.