Dear Kevin and Sue,
I have had the privilege of being an outreach coordinator for FORCE (
www.facingourrisk.org) for the last 5 years. Please go the site and educate yourself more thoroughly before making any judgements about genetic testing and counseling. I have also manned a helpline (trained by the U of Penn) to speak w those concerned about their risk. I have seen the benefits of testing firsthand ,both personally (tested negative...twice,and am ironically Her2+++)and on others.
Primary peritoneal cancer ,which is treated as an ovarian cancer, can occur even after the ovaries have been removed by BSO (bilateral salpingo oophrectomy). There is a tiny portion of the fallopian tubes that can remain and it is believed that this can be where the cells that can cause the PPC come from. The risk for BRCA carriers is substantially increased over that of the general public. Furthermore ,there are statistics that show that BRCA carriers born prior to 1940 fewer were diagnosed with cancer than those born after 1940 ( perhaps more PESTICIDES,CARCINOGENS now than in the 40s!?) I believe the term that is used in the medical community to describe the increase in cancer diagnosis within thiscommunity is called "anticipation". We are seeing both men and women (yes ,the mutation can be passed down by the fathers side as well) who have no "KNOWN" family history of cancer,testing positive for BRCA 1-2.
I have been a bit wordy here..but it is important that you understand that this (BRCA testing/counseling) is not some fad..or quackery....it IS lifesaving.
FORCE was referred to as the "premier" website for those at high risk by CURE magazine just last year and some of the most respected members of the medical community make up the advisory Board. FORCE is housed at the MOFFITT CANCER CENTER in Tampa,Fla.
Warmly,Marcia