The goal of hereditary cancer gene testing is to provide accurate risk assessment for the prevention, early detection or improved treatment of cancer.
Genetic testing can be used to help clarify a person’s risk for developing certain diseases related to hereditary cancer. When possible, it’s best to test a family member who is known to have cancer to determine the genetic factors responsible for the disease.
The test typically involves drawing blood or obtaining a saliva sample. In some cases, a tissue sample (e.g., cells from a tumor) may be obtained for testing as well.
The results of a genetic test can confirm or rule out a suspected hereditary cancer condition and determine the chance of passing it on to children. Genetic testing has the ability to provide an estimate of the chance someone would develop cancer; it does not diagnose cancer in an individual.
Hereditary Cancer Genetic Testing
It is estimated that approximate 10% of all cancers are due to an inherited cause. The majority of cancers are considered "sporadic" — not related to family history, caused by lifestyle choices (i.e. smoking), personal risk factors, environmental exposures or chance.
The most common explanation for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer is pathogenic variants (mutations) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. Pathogenic variants in these genes can also cause an increased risk for other cancers such as melanoma, prostate and pancreatic cancer.
Lynch Syndrome — due to pathogenic variants (mutations) in the MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2 and EPCAM genes — is the most common cause of hereditary colorectal cancer. Individuals with Lynch Syndrome are at an increased risk for various types of cancers include the following: colon, ovarian, uterine, pancreatic and stomach cancer.
Often, due to the number of different cancer diagnoses in a patient’s personal and/or family history, several hereditary cancer syndromes are possible, so a genetic counselor will discuss the advantages and possible disadvantages of a gene panel. A hereditary cancer gene panel includes analysis several genes that have been known to cause conditions associated with an increased risk to develop cancer.
The Cancer Genetics Screening Program offers an extensive review of personal and family health history, assessment of cancer risks and the likelihood of a hereditary cancer condition in the family, coordination and interpretation of genetic testing, personalized screening and management recommendations.
DNA Banking
DNA banking is an option so that a person’s DNA may be available for other family members as genetic testing technology improves. A blood or saliva sample may be used to obtain DNA which is stored for future use when a new genetic test becomes available. A person with terminal cancer may wish to bank DNA for the benefit of future generations.
Post-Test Counseling
A genetic counselor will discuss the genetic test results with you and explain what they mean for your health and your family. When appropriate, the genetic counselor will refer you to specialized physicians or advanced practice providers for further consultation and discussion of your medical management options.
Virtual Visits Are Available
Safe and convenient virtual visits by video let you get the care you need via a mobile device, tablet or computer wherever you are. We’ll gather your medical records for you and get our experts’ input so we can offer treatment options without an in-person visit. To schedule a virtual visit, call 1-866-680-0505.
