My Breakthrough
Where do you go if you are concerned about your family history of breast cancer?
If you have concerns about your family history of breast cancer then you should see your GP. GPs should take details about your family members (see What your GP needs to know). If your family history means that you are not at a risk greater than the general population, then your GP should give you information and details of support services if you would like them. If your family history means that you may be at an increased risk of breast cancer then you will be referred to a family history clinic, or in areas where there is no family history clinic, a genetics clinic.
A family history clinic is usually provided by a family history nurse within a breast clinic. At the family history clinic, you are likely to have a detailed family history taken and to be told what your family history means for you. You should be given information and contact details for support and voluntary organisations. Your family history nurse may refer you for early screening if you are found to have a family history of breast cancer that puts you at moderate or high risk of developing the disease.
People who are found to have a strong family history of breast cancer may be referred to a genetics clinic. Genetics clinics are located all around the country. They will be able to offer genetic counselling and Genetic testing if appropriate. They should offer access to a multi-disciplinary team (a team of experts including a clinical geneticist or a genetic counsellor, a breast surgeon, a psychologist and a clinical nurse specialist), information, and contact details for support services. If risk-reducing surgery is appropriate, it is carried out by a multi-disciplinary team, following counselling through a Genetics Clinic.
