DNA testing could save lives; it did for me

Missing from all the coverage of the Food and Drug Administration authorization of the first-ever over-the-counter genetic cancer risk test for BRCA gene variants was any reaction from the people this decision impacts the most — people like me.

Almost eight years ago, during the short period when 23andMe first offered this report, one of these tests likely saved my life. Yet I’ve seen comments dismissing 23andMe’s report as “meaningless.”

It wasn’t for my family or me. And I know I’m not alone. About 60% of people who have one of these mutations wouldn’t qualify for cancer screening under current guidelines.

Almost nine years ago, my sister Sara was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a frightening and humbling experience. After her diagnosis, both Sara and my mother had clinical genetic tests done that found no risk variants. I went to my doctor, who following standard protocol, advised against BRCA testing because both my mother and sister tested negative. I took her advice.

Then unrelated to any of this, my husband bought 23andMe kits. We didn’t expect it, but I discovered that I had a BRCA mutation putting me at a much higher risk for breast and ovarian cancer. I went to my doctor, who did follow up screening confirming the 23andMe results. I likely inherited these mutations from my father. I talked to a genetic counselor and took action.

I am healthy now. I’ve become very involved with the local Basser Center, advocating for more research. I understand the caution around how this in- formation is delivered, and the limits of 23andMe’s test. But I also know that there are many people like me for whom a report like this could make all the difference.

If this test can save just one life, that’s enough for me.

Jill Steinberg

New York

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