Hi there! Thank you for your question. Having a positive cancer family history does not necessarily mean you would get breast cancer. Nevertheless, genetics or family history play an important role the risk of breast cancer.

Up to 10% of breast cancer cases are due to genetic predisposition. The genes involved are BRCA1 gene mutations (chromosome 17), BRCA2 gene mutations (chromosome 13), HER2 gene mutation and P53 gene mutation (which also can be found in colon cancer). Genetic test can be done to pick up the mutations.

Breast cancer is usually painless and there usually is a lump. Since you are having breast pain, it is important to note if you are having any other symptoms you are having. This is because there are so many other possible diagnosis for breast pain such as pregnancy, menstrual period, breast cyst / fibrocystic changes, mastitis/ engorgement, diet, breast size, breast surgery, medication, smoking and late presentation of breast cancer
It should be noted that, any form of breast lump or pain at any age group must be assessed using the triple therapy.

The triple therapy consist of:
Clinical examination. Essential first step in establishing diagnosis. Accurate history of presenting symptom and risk factor profile and physical exam contribute.
Imaging (ultrasound/mammogram). A mammogram detects 80 - 90 % of breast cancers, detects tumours that are not clinically palpable and is less reliable in women < 35yrs. Ultrasound is useful in younger patients and provides additional information on tumour.
Tissue biopsy.

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is performed in the out-patient clinic. The aspirate from lump assessed by cytologist which allows demonstration of presence or absence of malignant cells. But it does not distinguish invasive and non-invasive cancer. Core Biopsy on the other hand is performed under local anaesthetic and can be performed under X-ray guidance.

It provides a small sample of tissue from the lump that differentiates invasive and non-invasive cancer. So to answer your question, yes, see your doctor so necessary test can be done and a diagnosis can be established. This will ensure proper management of your problem.

Please click on this link (DoctorOnCall) to talk to us privately online and discuss further about your inquiries. Thank you.