Genetic Testing and Prostate Cancer

If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, knowing your family history of cancer can be of great value. Some people have an inherited mutation in a gene that causes prostate cancer. These mutations also raise the risk of getting breast, ovarian or pancreatic cancer. Men with one of these mutations may be at greater risk of developing a more aggressive, deadly form of prostate cancer. A family history of colon cancer may also raise the risk.

Your doctor may suggest genetic testing if:

• You have cancer that has spread.
• You have high-grade cancer, which grows and spreads more quickly.
• You’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer that hasn’t spread and have a strong family history of prostate, breast, ovarian, colon or pancreatic cancer.

If a man without prostate cancer has one of these gene mutations, he may need earlier screening for prostate cancer. If a man has prostate cancer, knowing he has a genetic mutation can help the doctor choose the best treatment.

The test is a saliva or blood test and results take about two to six weeks. About 80% of patients get a negative test. This means they don’t have the mutation.

It is always best to talk to your doctor to find the best option for you.