4.11.2009

Hot in Them Jeans Genes

I recently found out that my mom's cousin (aka my mom's mom's sister's daughter--clear as mud, no?) was recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer (colon, to be specific).

At 57 she wasn't quite as young as me at diagnosis, but it's one more family member than the previous zero family members I'd had with colon cancer, so I am going to go ahead with genetic counseling.

My understanding is that there are laws in place to protect Vi from discrimination by insurance companies in the future, so that's a good thing. I guess the question is, what does it mean if they do find a genetic link? Then what?

I guess that's what the whole counseling part of genetic counseling is for...

2 comments:

Steph said...

I'm sorry about your cousin (or 2nd cousin once removed whatever it is)

As I think you may know I tested positive for one of those damn genes. And my understanding is I actually can be discriminated against. I know my brother choose not to be tested due to possible discrimination bs. I've heard of peeps being denied ins after testing positive.

But aside from that load of crappola I think it is good idea to get tested.

good luck.

Anonymous said...

You can be discriminated against? I am 47 and was just diagnosed w/colon cancer. No history in my family, we tend to die of heart ailments.

I have 2 daughters I will want tested. Well, me first I guess to see if I have the damn gene. god I pray I don't, for my daughters' sake.

Peggy