Dear Family Member,

As you may know, I recently underwent genetic testing. I tested positive for a mutation in one of my genes. The genetic mutation found in me causes a hereditary cancer condition called the Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome. I am sharing this information with you because you are at risk to have Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome. I learned that because this genetic mutation is inherited (passed down) this is important information for all my blood relatives. The gene mutation identified is passed down from one generation to the next in my family; therefore my genetics professional recommend that my children, siblings, and aunts, uncles and cousins consider the following information.

Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome is an inherited condition meaning that it is passed down from one generation to the next. If you are tested and find out you have Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome your children have a 1 in 2 (50%) chance to Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome. Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome is known to increase the risk for certain cancers, including breast, ovarian, prostate and male breast cancers among other cancers. Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome is caused by the inheritance of a faulty gene that normally functions to protect the body from cancer.

I have discussed this information with my genetics professional extensively and they recommend that you seek the assistance of your healthcare provider in attempting to discover what this means for you and your family. Should you choose to be tested yourself, you will need a copy of my test result information to have the appropriate test. I have invited you to join Kintalk so you can have my genetic test results and other information. You can find this information on my Kintalk profile. Once you have this information, testing can be coordinated through genetic counselors. To learn more about Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome and then next steps for you, please refer to Kintalk.org. To locate a genetic counselor in your area, refer to the National Society of Genetic Counselors (http://nsgc.org/page/find-a-gc-search).

Sincerely,

XXXX