Genetic Counseling for Cancer Risk
Overview of Genetic Testing for Cancer
If an individual has a family history of cancer, their chances of a cancer diagnosis may be higher than the average person. Our cancer genetic counseling program was created to provide services and testing for people with a family history of cancer.
- A personal or family history of breast, ovarian, colon or uterine cancer diagnosed before age 50.
- Abnormal Immunohistochemistry (IHC) screening of a colon or uterine tumor (indicates an increased risk for a hereditary cancer syndrome).
- Multiple relatives on the same side of the family with the same or related cancers.
- A personal or family history of a single person in the family with multiple primary cancers.
- A personal or family history of male breast cancer Jewish ancestry and a personal or family history of any of the cancers already mentioned.
- A known genetic condition in the family (Lynch syndrome, BRCA, etc.).
In our program, a certified genetic counselor will analyze and discuss an individual's personal risks of developing a cancer. The genetic counselor will also discuss what the individual and their family can do to lower their chances of getting cancer and increase the chance for early detection if cancer does occur. The individual and their healthcare providers can then discuss the best options for genetic testing for cancer.
Who Should Consider Cancer Genetic Counseling?
Using the list below one can evaluate their personal risk for hereditary cancer. If any of these apply, genetic testing for cancer may be appropriate.
- A personal or family history of breast, ovarian, colon or uterine cancer diagnosed before age 50.
- Abnormal Immunohistochemistry (IHC) screening of a colon or uterine tumor (indicates an increased risk for a hereditary cancer syndrome).
- Multiple relatives on the same side of the family with the same or related cancers.
- A personal or family history of a single person in the family with multiple primary cancers.
- A personal or family history of male breast cancer.
- Jewish ancestry and a personal or family history of any of the cancers already mentioned.
- A known genetic condition in the family (Lynch syndrome, BRCA, etc.).
Why Is Genetic Testing for Cancer Important?
Understanding your genetic makeup is a vital step in cancer prevention and early detection. When you work with a cancer genetic counselor, you gain a professional partner who helps identify hereditary risks for yourself and your children. A cancer genetic counselor guides you through the process of selecting the most appropriate DNA tests based on your family history, ensuring you understand how these tests work and their overall clinical accuracy.
The process also involves navigating the logistics of testing, where a cancer genetic counselor provides essential guidance on potential costs and works with you to manage insurance requirements. Should you receive a positive result, your cancer genetic counselor is there to help interpret the findings and collaborate with your medical team. This ensures you have a proactive, personalized plan for increased screening or risk-reduction strategies to manage your health moving forward.
What Happens During and After a Genetic Counseling Appointment?
A genetic counselor will meet with an individual and obtain a detailed family and medical history. Based on their risk assessment, the genetic counselor will help the individual understand their options for avoiding or managing the diseases for which they may be at risk. Risks for both the individual and their family will be discussed. Genetic testing cancer genes is available for a small but growing number of conditions. The genetic counselor will discuss testing options as well as the benefits, risks, limitations and costs of each test. Further recommendations will be based on the individuals level of risk.
This appointment serves as the essential first step in determining if genetic testing for cancer is the right choice for your specific situation. Your genetic counselor will help you understand how these results can shape a personalized cancer screening and prevention plan, while providing ongoing support to help you interpret your findings. They also ensure you have access to resources and clinical guidance should you receive a positive result.