Every woman in my family has had breast and overian cancer. Im only 23 years old and i have a painful lump on the right side on the right breast I have had 2 children. What are my risks of getting these cancers?
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Q: Every generation of women in my family has had cancer. what are my risks?
Answers (3)
10/ 7/08 3:10pm
Rhonda, depends what you mean by "every woman." Your mother? Sister? Grandmother? If so, then you should definitely get some genetic testing, as this will tell you a lot about your actual risk. The painful lump you feel right now is probably not breast cancer; painful lumps are usually something else, especially at your age. But absolutely ask your doctor to set you up with genetic testing; sicnce there's such a history of breast cancer in your family, insurance should pay for it. Good luck - PJH
10/ 9/08 9:51pm
How old were the women in your family when they got cancer? My doctor told me that it is premenopausal breast cancers that are more likely to be genetic. As PJ suggested genetic counseling is a topic to discuss with your doctor, and you will want to let the doctor check out that lump, especially if it has lasted longer than one menstrual period. However, unless the breast cancers occurred to other women in your family in their 20's, it is very unlikely that what you are feeling is cancer. I've had a history of large painful lumps that turned out to be harmless fluid-filled cysts. Having them drained in the doctor's office made me much more comfortable.
10/10/08 10:38am
I would say not to hesitate on getting it checked out. The earlier you find out what's going on the the better off you are. Please go and get it looked at.
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By Rhonda— Last Modified: 12/27/10, First Published: 10/06/08
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