It may seem strange how open and forward I have been about talking about my brca1 mutation and the preventative measures I have chosen to take but I believe bringing awareness about this subject can and will save lives. My mom took the initiative to get tested for the brca gene mutation after taking a good look at the cancer in our family linage, which included her own breast cancer. She has always been proactive about her health, having regular exams and having self awareness of her body, but now with the knowledge of the brca1 mutation the doctors watch her closely. She was immediately advised to have her fallopian tubes and ovaries removed which lead to the awareness of her fallopian tube cancer that was not yet detected. That was almost two years ago now. After chemotherapy, a total hysterectomy and a good solid year, she was back to her energetic self again. Although she felt great, she complained about random abdominal pain and pressure. She continued to insist that she get tested until they find out what was wrong. My mom has always taught me over the years that you must be an advocate for your own health. "Follow your gutt feelings and ask for tests to be done," she would say. The doctors tested her CA 125 levels. This is a test that measures a certain protein in the blood, a tumor marker, and if it measures a high number CAN be a detection of ovarian/fallopian tube cancer. For more information about this test and what it is go to: http://www.medicinenet.com/ca_125/article.htm
From there she had a body scan, an MRI, and a brain scan. They found she has a tumor on her lung, cancer cells in the fluid of her lung and some microscopic cancer cells in her abdominal region. The fallopian tube cancer had surfaced again. Apparently, some dorm-it cells were not killed in the chemotherapy treatment two years ago and decided to make an appearance again in new locations. She is currently taking two different chemotherapy drugs that are in the second stages of a drug trial that are specifically for ovarian and fallopian tube cancer patients and have proven to be very effective with brca1 patients. Her spirits are high and she is feeling strong and optimistic. Again, the awareness of having the brca1 mutation and being an advocate for her own health has continued to save her life. Following my Mom's lead, my sister and I also took the direct proactive measure and had our fallopian tubes and ovaries removed therefore cutting our chances of getting ovarian and fallopian tube cancer to 1-2%. Those are odds I surly can live with.
I'm not saying the whole world should run out and get this test done- it's not necessary for everyone and can be expensive if your insurance does not cover it. Just be aware and take note if:
1. There has been multiple cases of breast cancer and/or ovarian and fallopian tube cancer in your family, especially if they were under the age of 50 years old.
2. If you are from a Ashkenazi Jewish descent. Rearchers have discovered that woman from an Ashkenazi Jewish descent are more likely to have the brca1 or 2 mutation then the general population. It's as many as 1 and 40 (2.65%) compared to the general population of 1 and 500 (.02%).
If you want more information about this test and weather it is right for you, just ask your doctor who can put you in contact with a genetic counselor. Awareness is the key and has made all the difference in the world to MY family.
Most importantly, to my Mom who continues to amaze me everyday with her wisdom, strength and insight. You are an inspiration and a hero to me and to so many others. Thanks for being wonderful you. I love you.
