NICE guidance on familial breast cancer

Jun 23 2004

"Breast Cancer Care are extremely pleased that NICE has developed this guidance, as it will improve the standards of care for women at risk of familial breast cancer.

For a woman, finding out that you have a family history of breast cancer can be devastating. It may involve you needing to make very complex and difficult decisions. We are extremely delighted that the guidance recognises the importance of access to psychological care and support for women with a genetic link or a concern about a family history of breast cancer.

We are also pleased that it provides clear recommendations about the type of information women should receive. We know that high-quality support, care and information are incredibly important to women.

Breast Cancer Care recognises that many women may be anxious about whether they have a family history and would like to highlight that only a small proportion of women with breast cancer will have a known family history and that age remains the strongest risk factor."