Approximately 5-10 percent of all cancers are hereditary… individuals are born with an altered gene passed from generation to generation that places them at increased risk of hereditary cancer.

Blood tests are now available to help you assess your risk, so you and your doctor can take steps to reduce it, detect cancer in its most treatable stages – or better yet, possibly prevent it from occurring at all.

Education/Genetic Counseling
Taking a closer look at your family history is the first step to assessing your hereditary cancer risk and can be done with or without genetic testing. In our Genetic Education Program, you will meet with a board-certified genetic counselor (a master’s degree level clinician with special training in genetics). During your appointment, our genetic counselor will review your family medical history, complete a personal cancer risk assessment, provide the most current research on hereditary cancers and discuss the benefits, risks, limitations and costs of genetic testing.

Genetic Testing
Sometimes genetic testing can help further define an individual’s hereditary cancer risk. Testing typically involves a blood test. Results are used to quantify your risks, develop cancer screening options, evaluate possible participation in optional clinical trials/research studies and make referrals to specialists and services that may be of help to you and your family.

Knowing your cancer risk – and doing everything you can to lower it – could make a big difference for you, your family and your future healthcare decisions.

Personal & Confidential
Deciding to pursue genetic testing is a personal decision and may have implications for your entire family. During your initial appointment, our professional staff can help you sort through any concerns you may have and work with you to determine if genetic testing is right for you and/or your family. All visits, family information, results and counseling remains confidential.

Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage and fees vary for genetic services. Most insurance plans provide coverage for genetic counseling and/or genetic testing. Although a physician referral is not required to participate in our program, you may need a referral for your insurance to cover the cost of the counseling appointment.

For Information
If you would like more information about our genetic education/testing program, please call (941) 917-2005.