Women who have a strong family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer may be interested in genetic testing. Most breast cancer (at least 90%) is not linked to family genetics, but for women with a strong family history of breast cancer genetic tests may be useful if the results help them make more informed decisions about their health care. Unfortunately, there are limited health management options available to women whose genetic test results indicate an increased risk of developing breast cancer. Genetic tests do not precisely predict who will develop breast cancer, and cannot protect those with a particular gene mutation from developing the disease.

Sometimes employers and health and life insurance companies can use genetic tests against women. This is called "genetic discrimination." For example, a company may not want to sell you life insurance if your test results show that you are at high risk for a disease. There are some legal protections but not enough. To learn more about these issues, see NBCCF for our position statement on Genetic Testing.

If you are considering genetic testing for breast cancer you need to carefully consider its risks and benefits. You must receive counseling by a certified genetic counselor who provides accurate and unbiased information about the potential benefits and limitations of genetic testing. You should talk with a genetic counselor who is part of a "cancer risk assessment program." These programs can usually be found at teaching hospitals. The genetic counselor should not be employed by the company that performs the genetic testing. A good genetic counselor will help you sort out the possible benefits and risks of taking a genetic test.