WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE RISKS AND BENEFITS OF BRCA TESTING?
• The process of genetic testing may be emotionally difficult regardless of whether a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation is found. If an alteration is found, this result may indirectly provide information about other family members who may have chosen not to be tested. One possible risk is that the results could be used by an insurance company to discriminate against an individual. Insurers may seek higher health insurance rate, cancel or deny policies for individuals with genetic “pre-existing conditions”. Several states have outlawed “genetic discrimination”, including Florida. There is also Federal law prohibiting discrimination. There is no physical risk from testing other than that of a routine blood draw. The major advantages of learning genetic test results may include: reduced uncertainty; ability to appropriately increase or decrease cancer screening depending on the results of testing; and the ability to take advantage of or to avoid surgery depending on test results.
