Mother Daughter, Breast of Friends: Coleen Nolan guests on podcast highlighting 'critical gap' in breast cancer testing
LISTEN: Their Mother and Daughter Breast of Friends podcasts can be heard at motherdaughterbreastfriends.co.uk.
The podcast featuring Coleen reveals thousands of Brits who previously tested negative for the BRCA genetic fault could still be at high risk but they are eligible for a new test.
Recent advancements in genetic research have identified numerous genes beyond BRCA1&2 and TP53 that confer varying levels of risk for breast cancer. These genes are now included in what is known as a panel test.
But it is feared up to 60,000 people in the UK, tested and thought not to carry a fault in BRCA1&2, may not be aware of the development and are now being urged to take the panel test.
Coleen’s family history falls within this category, making her participation in the podcast not only deeply personal but also highly relevant.
She reveals her newfound awareness regarding the availability of panel tests, thanks to the information shared on the podcast.
Becky says it underscores the importance of the podcasts as a platform for sharing vital health information.
The episodes are the latest public information drive by the National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline which is addressing the challenge head-on.
NHBC Helpline was founded more than 25-years-ago by Wendy, when she pioneered preventative surgery for hereditary breast cancer – she became one of the first people in the country to have both breasts removed as a measure to avoid breast cancer, following the deaths of her grandmother and mother from the disease.
Becky underwent the same procedure in 2004 after finding out she had an 80 to 90 percent risk of developing breast cancer.
The podcast series has attracted top names in genetics and shared many personal stories, striking a balance between expert insights and heartfelt experiences.
Additionally, the series includes a 'brightening your journey' initiative, offering something positive for those facing adversity.Becky said: "Our conversation with Coleen was a powerful reminder of the importance of staying informed about health options.
"We are committed to reaching out to those who might benefit from retesting and providing support through their journey. This episode is just the beginning of a larger conversation and effort to raise awareness about hereditary breast cancer.“This episode of Mother and Daughter Breast of Friends is more than just a podcast; it's a crucial resource in the fight against hereditary breast cancer, providing hope, information, and support.”
Hair products company Watermans UK is overall sponsor of the of the podcasts which are also supported by Sheffield law firm Graysons Solicitors.
The Helpline has taken more than 100,000 calls and changed the lives of 100,000’s of people – call 01629 813000, visit www.breastcancergenetics.co.uk, follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NHBCH and X: @nhbch.
Powered by the support of Aware® Breast self-examination aid, a leading advocate for breast health awareness, the podcast aims to be a beacon of positivity, encouraging self-examinations and proactive health choices.
Look out for updates at www.motherdaughterbreastfriends.co.uk and search on social media for the hashtag #MotherDaughterBreastOfFriends.
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LINKS:
Mother Daughter, Breast of Friends website: motherdaughterbreastfriends.co.uk
National Hereditary Breast Cancer Helpline website: www.breastcancergenetics.co.uk.
Helpline: 01629 813000
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NHBCH
Twitter: @nhbch