Compare your options

	My options
	Have a genetic test	Not have a genetic test	Wait to decide at a later date
What does this option involve?	A blood test. 6-8 weeks wait for test results. Find out whether you have an altered BRCA gene.	No blood test. No wait for test results	Wait to decide whether or not to have test. Ask GP for a referral to the genetics clinic at any time.
What are the possible benefits of this option?	More accurate idea of your chance of future cancers. Could help make decisions about options to reduce your chance of future cancers, such as surgery. Find out if your family has a chance of having the altered gene. If you tell your family you have an altered gene, they can decide about having a test. Some women prefer to have all tests done during their treatment.	May be less stressful not knowing results. If you have a high chance of future cancers, may still be able to take steps to reduce your chance of getting another cancer. Do not have to tell family members about test. If you change your mind later on you can still get tested.	Can think about whether or not to have test when ready. Can discuss test with family when ready
What are the possible disadvantages of this option?	May feel worried before or after results. If you have an altered gene, you may worry about telling family members that they might have an altered gene. May not find the answers you were looking for. Not all breast cancer genes have been found, so a negative result cannot exclude a genetic risk. Results can sometimes be uncertain.	May feel more worried not knowing results. Will not find out whether you have an altered gene and your family members may not be able to have a genetic test.	Having a test at a later date may make you feel worried. Some women prefer to have all tests done during their treatment.