Jill Martin, an advocate for breast cancer awareness, recently appeared on “Football Night in America” to discuss her personal experience with the disease and the importance of genetic testing. Last year, Jill was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer after genetic testing revealed she carries a mutation to one of her BRCA genes. Her cancer was only discovered during an MRI that was scheduled after finding out about her BRCA mutation, even though she had received clear mammogram and sonogram results previously. This highlights the importance of genetic testing in identifying potential risks of developing breast cancer.
Approximately 25 million people worldwide have a BRCA mutation, but only 10% of them are aware of it. Having a BRCA mutation significantly increases a person’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, as well as ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. Knowing whether you have a gene mutation can help you make informed decisions about preventive measures, guide your treatment options in case of cancer diagnosis, and inform your family members about their potential risks. It is crucial for individuals with a personal or family history of early onset breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, metastatic breast cancer, or who are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent to consider genetic testing.
Dr. Susan Domchek, executive director of the Basser Center for BRCA, emphasizes the importance of genetic testing for breast cancer for individuals with a family history of the aforementioned cancers. Men and women alike can benefit from genetic testing, as men with a BRCA mutation are at increased risk of developing breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and melanoma. Genetic counseling can help individuals make informed decisions about testing and interpret their results. Health care providers can recommend genetic testing or refer individuals to genetic counselors for further guidance.
There are various ways to undergo genetic testing for breast cancer, including seeking guidance from a health care provider or contacting a genetic counselor directly. Many insurance companies cover genetic testing when recommended by a health care provider, so it is advisable to contact your insurance company to inquire about coverage. Jill Martin discovered that she carries the BRCA mutation on her father’s side, despite her family history of breast cancer being on her mother’s side. She underwent treatment for breast cancer, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, and is currently taking medications to reduce her risk of recurrence.
Raising awareness about genetic testing for breast cancer is a key focus for Jill Martin, as she believes that it saved her life. By sharing her story and advocating for others to consider genetic testing, Jill hopes to help individuals discover if they have gene mutations and take proactive steps to reduce their risk of developing cancer. The importance of genetic testing cannot be understated in identifying potential risks and guiding preventive measures for individuals at high risk of breast cancer. It is essential for those with a family history of breast cancer or other related cancers to consider genetic testing to better understand and address their risk.
