Testing+for+Genetic+Mutations

Testing for Genetic Mutations
Patients typically have genetic counseling before and after genetic testing. A health care professional will inform potential patients of the benefits and risks, as well as preform an assessment of what type of genetic testing would be most beneficial for each individual patient. In order to test for genetic mutations, blood must be drawn from the patient. There are a number of ways to asses for mutations in BRAC1 and BRAC2; the most common way involves analyzing whether or not the proteins produced by these two genes are abnormal. The negative impacts of genetic testing are largely psychological. Those with positive test results may feel anxious and depressed, If a patient decides to undergo preventative surgeries, these can also cause complications of their own. Even negative test results may cause "survivors guilt," as most who decide upon genetic testing have lost loved ones to breast cancer.