Having genetic testing is a personal decision. If a close family member has had “positive” genetic testing, you’ll have the option to have your own testing done. A positive result means a change was found in a gene and that change is linked to higher cancer risk.
Your genetic counselor can talk with you about the testing and your personal risk for cancer to help you make an informed decision. Sometimes, extra cancer screening is recommended because of your family’s history of cancer or genetic results.