While everyone must ultimately make their own decisions about whether or not to get tested and whether or not to share their results, chances are that any efforts to keep results from a loved one will be counterproductive. A relationship built on honesty and openness is a healthy relationship. Sharing your results with your partner enables you to tap into their emotional support and love. Some women who test positive for BRCA1 and BRCA2 and who have a number of other compelling risk factors may opt to take some preventative measurers, such as starting on the drug, tamoxifen. Such decisions and other lifestyle modifications are best made with the help and support of loved ones.
Apart from the emotional implications, the decision to be genetically tested entails other responsibilities. What you find out affects not only you, but your children and your immediate relatives. You have a responsibility to share your results with your family.
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