Genetic Counseling
Cancer Risk Assessments
If someone in your family was diagnosed with cancer, you may be wondering if you are at a risk of developing it as well. When your family has a history of cancer you are at an increased risk, but that does not mean you need to live in constant fear that it will appear one day.
The Genetic Counseling Program is a cutting-edge cancer risk assessment that reviews your family’s medical history and provides you with a comprehensive guide on your risk factors and what you can do to prevent cancer.
Assessing Your Cancer Risk Factors
Once you’ve made an appointment with a genetic counselor, we will provide you with a family and personal history questionnaire. Learning more about your family’s history with this disease is key to determining your risks and allows us to customize your session based on your situation.
During your first appointment, our board-certified genetic counselor will discuss the questionnaire with you and give you some preliminary information. If you are an eligible candidate for genetic testing, we may ask for a blood sample.
The Benefits
Worrying that you may one day develop cancer takes a tremendous toll on your mental health. These tests can help put your fears to rest by using evidence-based practices to determine your risk factors once and for all.
Even if you discover that you do have an increased risk of cancer, knowing what to look out for will allow you to more easily identify the early stages of cancer and seek medical treatment before it has a chance to spread.
Additionally, we can advise you on an appropriate screening schedule for any cancers you are at an increased risk of developing.
Much of the damage done by cancer occurs because people are unable to diagnose it fast enough. Knowing what preventive care measures to take will allow you relieve stress and live your life to the fullest.