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<i>From NHS Orkney:</i><br>
BRAC1 Genetics Research Findings <br>
We are grateful to Professor Zosia Miedzybrodzka and Professor Jim
Wilson for their dedication to genetic testing. <br>
Genetic research is an important part of medical science and can
inform the services we offer. <br>
Our priority at NHS Orkney is, as always, the health and wellbeing
of the communities we serve. As Zosia explained, developing cancer
is not solely down to carrying the BRCA1 mutation alone, there are
many complex factors, and some people with gene alterations will not
get cancer. <br>
This research may cause concern for our communities and Orcadians
who have long left the island(s). A direct helpline to the NHS
genetic clinic has been stood up for anyone who has any questions
relating to the genetic findings and we urge you to call should you
have any queries, 01224 553940. <br>
At the moment, anyone with a direct family connection to the gene
can be tested. If you are unsure if this is you, you can find out
more by calling 01224 553940. However, planning for further testing
is underway with a small pilot test organised by NHS Grampian and
supported by local cancer charity, Friends of Anchor. <br>
Please bear in mind your GP will not be able to assist with gene
testing and any questions about these findings and next steps should
be directed to 01224 553940. <br>
For those who would rather research online, we urge you to only use
trusted sources, the NHS inform website has a plethora of
information, guidance and support available on all cancer topics,
<a class="moz-txt-link-freetext" href="https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/">https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/</a>. <br>
For anyone that has concerns about any new or worrying symptoms, it
is important they speak to their GP. Although it is unlikely to be
cancer, it is important that any indicated investigations can be
carried out. Finding cancer early means it's easier to treat. <br>
All of the above can be found on our
website,<a class="moz-txt-link-freetext" href="https://www.ohb.scot.nhs.uk/news/brac1-genetics-research-16-march-2023">https://www.ohb.scot.nhs.uk/news/brac1-genetics-research-16-march-2023</a>.<br>
For more information on the genetics research and clinic, please
visit
<a class="moz-txt-link-freetext" href="https://www.nhsgrampian.org/research-reveals-orkney-cancer-gene-link-now-testing-to-take-place">https://www.nhsgrampian.org/research-reveals-orkney-cancer-gene-link-now-testing-to-take-place</a>.
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