http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/14/opinion/my-medical-choice.html?_r=0
The BART, when positive for mutation, can give women that are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer some clarity with their decision to take preventative measures. Angelina Jolie's test revealed that she had an 87% chance of developing breast cancer. Therefore, she made the courageous choice to undergo a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy. Prophylactic meaning preventative. Prophylactic meaning by choice. In my opinion, it was a no brainer. She had the money and resources...why not ensure your health to the best of your ability?
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was automatically given the option to do the first round of BRCA testing and a large portion of it was covered by my insurance. I went in the day before my mastectomy. I already knew that I had breast cancer - I wanted to know (mostly for my daughter's sake) WHY I had breast cancer.
I had to fill out a 10 page form and undergo an hour long counseling session before they would take my blood. They made me fill out liability forms and explained all my options - that I did not have to undergo the tests and that they do not always give clarity. There's actually a school of thought that is against BART altogether...some people don't want to know. And some insurance programs don't cover it. I didn't care. There was nothing stopping me. I willingly did the tests.
My BART was negative for any mutations. Which really means, I have no idea WHY I had breast cancer. It means that the BART, had I done it earlier in life, would not have changed anything about my journey. And more than anything, it means that there is no replacement for diligent self-exams, awareness and mammograms.
If given the opportunity to take charge of your health - take it. You don't have to have $4000 to get ahead of the breast cancer game (although if you have BC in your family and can afford the BART - do it!) Just be aware of your own body. Feel it. Love it. Own it!
Have you done your monthly breast check?
