This risk information may be helpful in planning decisions about cancer surveillance or use of prophylactic surgery. Some people may want to use it in making family planning or career decisions. Because a mutation will not always be found, the optimal testing strategy is to test one or more affected relatives first. Then, if a mutation is identified, testing can be offered to unaffected individuals, to determine whether or not they have inherited the cancer predisposition. However, if a mutation cannot be identified in an affected family member, further testing will be non-informative and should not be pursued.
Genetic testing involves potential risks as well as benefits.
Experts agree that individuals contemplating testing should have the opportunity to consider these issues carefully prior to deciding whether or not to be tested. Risks of a positive genetic test include anxiety and family distress, and the potential for stigmatization and loss of insurance or employment opportunities. The information provided by the CCA on this website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your health care provider.