DAWN HARPER ASK THE DOCTOR

Doctor Dawn Harper answers all your questions

- Doctor Dawn Harper

WILL I GET BREAST CANCER, TOO?

My mum died of breast cancer in her 40s. Now that I'ma similar age, it’s playing on my mind. My sister, who’s older than me, paid to be tested for the breast cancer gene mutation. Could I get this test on the NHS?

Your GP may be able to refer you for genetic counselling and testing on the NHS. You'll need to give a detailed family history, so find out as much as you can. A specialist will explain the implications if you test positive for the gene mutation. Some women, may, for example, want to think about a prophylactic double mastectomy if their genes show they are significantly at risk of breast cancer.

Help! I keep getting cysts