In case you missed it, Angelina Jolie is back in the news talking about steps she’s taking to reduce her cancer risk.
In May 2013, the actress shared that she had a double mastectomy after learning she carried the BRCA1 gene mutation, a potential early indicator for cancer. Jolie’s mother died of ovarian cancer in 2007. In March 2015, Jolie announced recent tests led her – and her team of physicians – to decide to remove her fallopian tubes and ovaries.
In an op-ed for the New York Times, Jolie explains the reasons she and her doctors chose this course of action. She mentions several times that her decision was not made only because she has the BRCA1 gene mutation, rather, she had other potential risk factors for developing ovarian cancer.
Was it the right decision?
Jaime Grund, MS, St. Elizabeth Healthcare coordinator of clinical genetic services, says Jolie made the right choice.
“She shares how she came to her management options and acknowledges that her decisions aren’t right for everyone,” said Grund. “One person’s opinion should always be taken with a grain of salt, since it won’t always align with your particular ideals or priorities.”
As with any other procedure, the decision to undergo preventative surgery should be discussed at length with your doctors to understand what your options are – and how those options change over time.
“Women at all stages of their lives receive this diagnosis, from their 20s to their 80s” said Grund. “The surveillance and surgical management for a woman receiving this diagnosis in her 20s would likely be very different than we would offer her mother.”
What’s the right decision for me?
If you, or a family member, has been diagnosed with BRCA1, here are a few steps you and your doctor can take to determine the right treatment course:
- Use Jolie’s article as a conversation starter
This provides the perfect chance to start the discussion about preventative surgery and additional treatment options with your physician, your friends and your family. - Look for support groups, both in-person and online
It’s an important time to reach out to support group members who have been in the same situation. They may know what you are going through and offer relatable advice. - Remember hereditary cancer isn’t a guaranteed diagnosis
Just because someone in your family had cancer or you carry a genetic mutation, it does not mean you should assume a cancer diagnosis is inevitable. A family history and genetic counseling simply allow for the chance to discuss preventative measures that can be taken to manage your specific risk. - Avoid jumping to conclusions or panicking based on one article
Jolie’s piece should not be your only resource for BRCA1 information. Keep looking for facts and support from other sources, including your care provider and genetic counselor.
Have you been diagnosed with the BRCA1 gene mutation or think you might be at risk? Contact us to let us know what you think of Jolie’s article or to get in touch with a genetic counselor in the area.
