Ovarian Cancer Information Sheet
Information in Genetic Testing
Between 5 and 10% of breast and ovarian cancer cases can be linked to hereditary mutations. Knowing that you have inherited a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene – the two most common genes known to be associated with breast and ovarian cancer – provides valuable information that can help you reduce your risk for these diseases, or catch them early enough to allow successful treatment. Future drugs, already in clinical trials, may also be able to tailor your treatment to your hereditary condition..
Signs of an hereditary breast-ovarian cancer syndrome may include but are not limited to: - Breast cancer at age 45 or younger
- Breast cancer in both breasts in a woman at any age
- Both breast and ovarian cancer in the same woman
- Two or more family members with ovarian cancer and/or breast cancer, especially if the breast cancer was diagnosed at or before age 50
- At least one family member with breast cancer and one with ovarian cancer
- Breast cancer in men
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage and ovarian cancer at any age or breast cancer before age 60
Other factors may indicate a hereditary cancer syndrome within a family. It is important to seek the opinion of a specialist in cancer genetics if you believe the cancer in your family may be hereditary.
Finding a Genetic Counselor in WA
Below is a list of counselors as listed in the NCI Genetic Services Directory. Ovarian Cancer Togetether merely states them here for information and does not endorese them in any way.
Susie Ball MS Wenatchee
Robin L. Bennett MS Seattle
Andrea E. Fishbach MS Seattle
Amy A. Gonzales MS Seattle
Julie R. Gralow MD Seattle
Nancy Hanson MS Olympia
Lael E. Hinds MS Kennewick
Michaelann Liss DO Vancouver
Holly L. Neibergs PhD Pullman
Robert G. Resta MS Seattle
Hereditary Cancer Support
FORCE - Facing Our Risk Seattle Network
As well as a wealth of information on hereditary ovarian cancer, the site also offers a toll-free helpline on 1-866-824-RISK (7475), message boards, chat rooms and support for pre-vivors and survivors.