??Pink October??- Preventive Bilateral Mastectomy FAQs

Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and am part of Pink October-Movember Campaign in Malta, I have decided to share with you Facts about this common cancer and a couple of FAQs regarding the Preventive Bilateral Mastectomy.

FACTS:

In Malta, around 300 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. That's one new case per working day.?In fact it is the most common cancer found in women, However, breast cancer is also found in men. Unfortunately, it knows no age and it is therefore eminently important to do regular self-checking and yearly medical screening. Here's what to look out for.

Preventive Bilateral Mastectomy FAQs

1. How did you find out you had the mutation?

Four years ago, my oncologist introduced me to the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 gene mutation test, since I have a history of breast cancer in the family. Must admit that it was not as easy as it sounds to do the test, although realistically it is just a blood test (nothing out of this world). This test is done to determine if you have changes (mutations) in your DNA that increase the risk of breast cancer. This type of testing is known as?predictive genetic testing. It's "predictive" because?a positive result means you have a greatly increased risk of developing cancer. It does not mean you have cancer or are definitely going to develop it.

2. What is your risk?

Unfortunately, I have tested positive. But FORTUNATELY, I could prevent breast cancer by choosing my life over my body. Prior my bilateral mastectomy, my risk of getting BRC was between 80% - 90%. BUT after my surgery. it went down to less than 5%. The average risk for women to develop BRC without any history is between 17% - 19%.

3. How did you react to the news?

I was very sad, obviously, that at the age of 21 I had to receive such news and make such difficult decisions. I had 2 options: that of living the rest of my life in fear, or else do the surgery. Yes, I did feel angry, sad, and scared. BUT I chose my life over my body.

4. Does having a bilateral mastectomy mean you will not get BRC?

NO! It does not guarantee I will not get it, as it is impossible to remove every cell. But as previously mentioned, it took my risk from 80% - 90% down to less than 5%. YES! Less than a normal woman's risk!

5. Is it similar to breast augmentation?

Must admit that this question frustrates me the most. It has nothing to do with breast augmentation. Please be considerate when asking questions to women who did or are doing a bilateral mastectomy.

6. Do you feel any less of a women?

Obviously not! Rather I feel empowered that I made such a strong choice that in no way or another diminishes my femininity. Before my surgery, I searched A LOT about it. And what struck me most was the article of Angelina Jolie.

7. What to expect when recovering?

It depends on what procedures are done. It took me five weeks to fully recover. I was in my final year for my B.A (Hons) in Tourism Studies. Hence, I've spent my recovery reading literature and writing my thesis. However, after 4 weeks, I returned to University to follow lectures, as at the time (4 years ago) online education was something out of this world ??.

8. Has your life changed since you did your operation?

Not really, as I live a normal life. I eat whatever I feel like, obviously having a balanced diet like everyone should have, and I try to keep my self as active as possible. Although I must admit that this year I did put physical training a bit on the side. But hopefully, I'll get my energy and motivation back soon.

To all those at high risk, I encourage you to do the necessary tests and screening more often. Early detection can save your life! And to all those currently facing the battle, hang in there, it might be stormy right now, but it cannot rain forever.

If you've loved yourself before cancer, do not be afraid of life after cancer. You will find beauty again.