Genetic Counseling for Cancer
Our genetic counselor helps people understand their risk for cancer based on their personal and family history. If someone may be at higher risk, we can offer genetic testing.
Appointments are available in person or online (telehealth).
Who May Benefit from Genetic Counseling?
Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer
You may be at higher risk if you or a family member has:
- Breast cancer before age 50
- Cancer in both breasts at any age
- Ovarian cancer at any age
- Male breast cancer at any age
Hereditary Colon Cancer
You may be at higher risk if you have:
- More than nine polyps over your lifetime
- Polyps found before age 40
- Colon or rectal cancer before age 50
- Endometrial (uterine) cancer before age 50
Hereditary Melanoma (Skin Cancer)
You may be at higher risk if:
- One person or family has had two melanomas
- There is a history of both pancreatic cancer and melanoma in the same person or family
Other Hereditary Cancer Risks
You may also be at higher risk if three or more people on one side of your family have had cancers such as:
- Bladder, brain, kidney, lung, or stomach cancer
- Endometrial (uterine) cancer
- Mouth or skin cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Thyroid or testicular cancer
- Sarcoma or multiple myeloma
What Happens During a Genetic Counseling Visit?
A genetic counseling visit usually takes about one hour and includes:
- A detailed review of your family history
- A chart (family tree) to look for patterns of cancer
- A risk estimate for inherited gene changes (mutations)
- Education about:
- Genetics and inherited cancer risks
- Your chance of developing cancer
- Family and ethical concerns
- Privacy and possible concerns about discrimination
Genetic Testing
- Your insurance will be checked (about 97% of plans cover testing)
- If appropriate, testing can be done at a later visit
- Results are usually ready in about one month
After Your Visit
- With your permission, a copy of your visit notes can be shared with your doctor or another provider