Brca1 Testing

I am 20 (almost 21) and have a family history of breast cancer. My life is very healthy (I did not drink or smoke, I eat healthy, and I work regularly, so do monthly BSE). My mom thinks I need to start getting a mammogram now, but everything I read says it is very rare to do so. Is this something I should talk to my gynecologist? In addition, a gynecologist from my aunt recommended that all women in our family to get tested for a gene linked to issues with our ovaries ... how do I do this with my doc? Finally, has anyone out there has been tested for BRCA1 and BRCA2 ... I'm not worried about a blood test, but I have mixed feelings about it. I guess I'm not really sure I want to know if I have the gene or not.

Sorry I'm rambling a little confused right now.


PS I know that all insurance companies are different ... but what do you think the probability of Aetna to pay for anything above that is?

If your doctor's orders BRCA testing, and Aetna will pay for it. I Aetna, and while I have not had this test, they paid the full amount negotiated for each test and treatment ordered my documents over the last 6 months + of my treatment for breast cancer.

If you are BRCA positive, then I would definitely get an annual mammogram.

I had two rounds of Hodgkin's disease and breast cancer now, my doctor recommended I get tested to see if I had the gene. They take the blood sample and send it to Cali and run the test before they call your insurance company and how much will be covered. I was lucky to have mine covered 100%. Once they get the amount of the insurance company, they call you and tell you how much, if anything the test will cost. It is then your choice to get the completed questionnaire or not. I was tested and I do not carry the mutant gene! I hope you do either.

Dear