Hereditary Cancer Service

If you have a family history of cancer, your chances of getting cancer may be higher than the average person. The Hereditary Cancer Service evaluates your risks, determines if they are being passed down in your family, and provides guidance for reducing those risks.

We know that genetic factors in combination with environmental factors play a role in the development of cancer. Many cancers are chance occurrences later in life. However, some people inherit changes in their genes (called mutations) that put them at much greater risk for developing cancer. This is called hereditary cancer predisposition.

Use this checklist to evaluate your risk for hereditary cancer.  If you answer yes to one or more of the questions, cancer genetic counseling may be appropriate for you.

• Have several family members had cancer?
• Have you or a relative had cancer before age 50?
• Has more than one family member had the same type of cancer?
• Have you or a relative had more than one type of cancer?
• Have you or a relative had a rare or unusual cancer?

The Hereditary Cancer Service provides the services of a genetic counselor - a healthcare professional specially trained to evaluate your personal and family medical histories.  Our genetic counselor can help you to understand the genetic testing process and test results.

Genetic mutations can increase your risk for certain types of cancer, but even then your risk is less than 100%. More frequent screening, medications or surgeries can help prevent these cancers or detect them earlier. Early detection leads to a better chance of successful treatment. You and your healthcare providers can discuss treatment options to determine the health management course that’s right for you.

Many types of cancer can have a hereditary basis. Genetic testing is most commonly ordered for family histories of breast, colon, ovarian and uterine cancers, but is also available for other types of cancer including thyroid, stomach and pancreatic, among others. We are still finding genes linked to cancer. In some cases, testing through a genetic research study is available.

If you have questions or would like to make an appointment, please contact: Melanie Taylor, MS, CGC Certified Genetic Counselor at (970) 569-7626.