Breast and Ovarian Cancer (BRCA) Genetic Test

Why would I not be tested?

You may have several reasons not to have the test:

• You may face difficult emotions. You may be afraid and anxious if you test positive. You may feel guilty if you test negative and someone in your family tests positive.
• You are concerned about how the results might affect your relationships. You have to decide if you would tell a family member—a sister or daughter, for example—who then has to decide if he or she wants to have the test.
• Your insurance does not cover the testing, or covers only some of it. Genetic testing can be very expensive (several hundred to several thousand dollars).
• You are concerned about how the information might affect your employment or your health, life, and disability insurance.
• You would not take preventive steps—such as regular exams and tests, taking medicine, or having your breasts or ovaries removed—no matter what the test results are.

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Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH	Last Updated: September 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Douglas A. Stewart, MD - Medical Oncology
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