Cancer Genetic Counseling
Cancer is caused by DNA damage in cells over time. There are several ways to acquire DNA damage, including aging, environmental factors, or hereditary factors. Most of the time, we don’t know what these exact factors were that contributed to cancer development.
About 10% of cancers are hereditary, meaning there is a gene predisposing someone to cancer that is being passed through the family. Having an inherited genetic change does not say absolutely if or when a person will get cancer, though it can increase the chances.
A hereditary cancer syndrome is an inherited condition in a family due to a gene change, which gives family members higher risks for developing cancer than the general population risks.
Often, there are certain types or patterns of cancers seen recurring in the family. Breast cancer and colon cancer, especially in younger individuals, are examples of cancer types that are more likely to be due to an inherited gene change.
If you have had a personal diagnosis of cancer or have concerns about cancer diagnoses in your family, a genetic counseling visit would help to assess your risk factors and discuss genetic testing options.
We would review your personal and family history in detail, evaluate the risks for a genetic cause for cancer in yourself or the family, and discuss whether genetic testing would be appropriate.
If a genetic change predisposing you or other family members to higher cancer risks is identified, this is very important for your care. Screening and prevention recommendations, as well as lifestyle changes, can help mitigate cancer risks and help detect possible development of cancer early.
Additionally, information about an inherited gene change can be important to share with children or other family members at risk.