12/06/2018
Genetic Testing For Cancer Risk (From American Cancer Society)
Predictive genetic testing is the type of testing used to look for inherited gene mutations that might put a person at higher risk of getting certain kinds of cancer. This type of testing might be advised:
For a person with a strong family history of certain types of cancer, to see if they carry a gene mutation that increases their risk. If they do have an inherited mutation, they might want to have tests to look for cancer early, or even take steps to lower their risk. An example is testing for changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes (which are known to increase the risk of breast cancer and some other cancers) in a woman whose mother and sister had breast cancer.
For a person already diagnosed with cancer, especially if there are other factors to suggest the cancer might have been caused by an inherited mutation (such as a strong family history or if the cancer was diagnosed at a young age). Testing might show if the person has a higher risk of some other cancers. It can also help other family members decide if they want to be tested for the mutation.
For family members of a person known to have an inherited gene mutation that increases cancer risk. Testing can help them know if they need tests to look for cancer early, or if they should take steps to try to lower their risk. Please email me back if you are interested in having the test done no cost to you.
What Is Genetic Cancer Testing?
Knowledge Is Power!
"Genetic testing is a powerful tool to identify those individuals who are at especially increased risk for developing certain cancers because of family history." M D Anderson
