We respond to the news that Kara Tointon has had a double mastectomy after discovering she has the BRCA1 gene

Louise Grimsdell, senior clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, said: “In sharing her personal experiences, Kara is helping to raise awareness of how having a significant family history can increase the risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer, and the options and treatments that may be available if you are told you have an inherited altered BRCA gene.

“If you have a relative with breast cancer, it doesn’t automatically mean you’re at greater risk of developing breast cancer yourself, but sometimes, someone’s family history suggests they could be at increased risk of developing the disease. However, most breast cancers are not inherited. There are only a small number of people who will be at a greater risk of developing breast cancer because they have a significant family history. Anyone who is concerned about their family history can speak to their GP to find out if they’re eligible for further assessment of their individual level of risk.

“Choosing whether to have risk-reducing surgery is an incredibly complex and personal decision, and it’s important that people are supported and know and can discuss all their options with a healthcare professional before making any decisions.

“Adjusting to how your body looks and feels after surgery can be difficult and takes time. This includes physical changes such as scars and loss of sensation following a mastectomy. Breast Cancer Now can put people in touch with trained volunteers who have an altered inherited gene such as BRCA and have had risk-reducing surgery through our Someone Like Me service. We have information on our website on family history, genetic testing and options for managing your risk. 

“Anyone seeking information or support can speak to Breast Cancer Now’s expert nurses by calling our free, confidential helpline on 0808 800 6000.”