Before deciding whether to get genetic testing, think about the possible benefits, risks and other issues you may face.

Some benefits may include:

• Easing the uncertainty by finding out if you have a gene mutation.
• Educating other family members if you share your test results with them.

Testing can also help you:

• Cope with cancer risk
• Decide whether or not to:
  • Get screened earlier
  • Get screened more often
  • Take a risk-reducing drug
  • Have a risk-reducing surgery
  • Participate in a clinical trial on cancer prevention

And if you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, genetic testing may help guide which treatments may be best for you. If you have questions about inherited gene mutations related to breast cancer or genetic testing for treatment decisions, talk with your health care provider.

Risks vary based on your test results.

If you have a mutation, there can be:

• Worry and anxiety
• Overwhelm about next steps and making decisions
• Sharing difficult news with family

If you don’t have a mutation, you:

• May feel awkward around family members who’ve had cancer or tested positive for a mutation
• Are still at risk for breast cancer

If the result is inconclusive (meaning a VUS), there can be:

• Confusion and frustration
• More stress in an already difficult situation

There are some additional things to consider about testing, including:

• A negative result doesn’t mean a person won’t get breast cancer.
• If a woman doesn’t have a gene mutation, she may feel less motivated to follow recommended screening guidelines.
• A positive result may cause depression or anxiety.
• A person may face discrimination when applying for life insurance or disability insurance even though this is currently prohibited by law.
• And test results can affect relationships among family members if some test positive and others do not.

A person considering genetic testing should think about the benefits and risks carefully. A genetic counselor can talk you through all of your options and help you understand what they really mean. To learn more, you can visit the Risk Factors section on komen.org.