Genetic counseling

Genetics counseling for cancer

Certain types of cancer can be passed from generation to generation. Our genetic counselor helps identify individuals who may be at high risk for developing cancer. Armed with this information, individuals and their physicians can plan preventive measures, or a cancer can be identified early when it is most curable.

Are you at high risk of developing cancer? Find out by taking our confidential online test.

The Cancer Genetics Counseling Program provides:

  • Confidential hereditary cancer risk assessment
  • Access to on-going local and national cancer research studies
  • Education for patients, health care professionals and the community
  • Genetic testing and DNA banking when appropriate

Should you have an assessment for hereditary cancer?

Although most cancer is not inherited and happens by chance, approximately 5-10% of all cancers are due to a hereditary factor.  If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, ask your doctor for a referral for a cancer genetics assessment:

  • Have several of your relatives had cancer, especially skin, breast, ovarian, colon, endometrial (cancer of the uterus) or thyroid cancer?
  • Have you or any of your relatives with cancer been diagnosed before the age of 50?
  • Do you or a relative have more than one primary cancer (such as breast cancer and then ovarian cancer)?
  • Do you or a family member have unusual cancers, such as a male breast cancer?
  • Does your family history of cancer cause you to worry about your risk?
  • Do you think that the cancer in your family is hereditary and you want to know more about genetic testing and cancer genes?

Genetic counseling for women

Genetic counseling assesses a couple's or individual's risk of passing on genetic problems to their unborn children. A genetic counselor provides a complete review of family, pregnancy and personal medical histories for both the mother and father.

Genetic counselors have specialized graduate degrees and experience in human genetics and counseling. They support both the patient and physician by identifying genetic risks, explaining the implications of test results and providing patient education.

Who can benefit?

Your physician may recommend genetic counseling if:

  • You are over the age of 35 at delivery
  • Results of prenatal tests indicate an increased risk for Down Syndrome, spina bifida or other potential birth defects
  • You have been exposed to medications, infection, alcohol abuse or environmental toxins
  • You have had previous miscarriages, stillbirth or infant death
  • You or your partner have a family history of genetic conditions, mental retardation or birth defects
  • You or your partner have a history of mental illness, cancer, diabetes, heart disease or other serious health concerns
  • You would like information about genetic conditions that occur more frequently in your ethnic group

If you are interested in making an appointment for genetic counseling, please feel free to call our Genetic Counseling Program at 877-641-2502 or download a referral form.