Cancer Risk Evaluation
Women who undergo breast/ovarian cancer risk assessment choose to learn about their family medical history, personal medical history, and lifestyle choices and how they may play a role in their risk for developing cancer. Some aspects of geneticsThe study of how traits get passed from one generation to the next. services will differ depending upon which medical center you visit. Regardless of which center visited, you should expect to see a doctor (either an oncologistA doctor that has extra training in caring for people with cancer. or geneticistA doctor who is an expert in genes and genetics.) and may also see another health care professional such as a genetic counselorHealth professional with specialized degrees and experience in the area of medical genetics and counseling. Her job is to help patients decide if they want to get genetic testing. or nurse.
Cancer Genetic Counseling
Genetic counselors are health care professionals who have specialized graduate degrees that focus on medical genetics and counseling. Cancer genetic counselors work as members of a health care team to identify families at risk for developing cancer due to heredity. They can help individuals more clearly understand their risk for hereditaryAny trait passed from parents to children. cancer by:
- Reviewing the family history, highlighting cancer events.
- Educating the patient regarding basic genetic facts as applied to cancer.
- Presenting known cancer risk factors.
- Discussing individualized risk based on family history and other factors.
- Discussing the risks, advantages, and disadvantages of genetic testingThe analysis of DNA and chromosomes for clinical purposes; can name and tell you if there are genes that are likely to be linked to unhealthy outcomes and illnesses. for inherited susceptibilityThe chance, or likelihood, of being affected by something. to cancer.
- Discussing (in conjunction with a physician) medical management options based on genetic test answers.
- Determining which family member is the most appropriate to test.
- Interpreting genetic test results.
- Cancer genetic counselors are non-directiveWhen the counselor or other professional gives you the chance to talk freely., meaning that they do not try to convince people to have or not to have genetic testing.
Before the Consultation
You will be asked to provide information about:
- Your family history including the number of cancers in the family.
- The types of cancers in your family.
- The age of onsetThe time when symptoms first appear. for those with cancer.
- Any genetic conditions that may exist in the family.
You may also be asked to provide details about your medical history such as hormone exposure and number of previous biopsies. By answering these and other related questions as precisely as possible, you will provide the health care practitioner with the information necessary to obtain the most correct assessment of your cancer risk.
During the Consultation
During the consultation, you can expect to learn about your risks for developing breast and ovarian cancer. A risk assessment session is also a good time to ask a health professional any questions you have about your risk. Some topics that can be covered in cancer risk assessment clinical settings include (but are not limited to):
- Genetic testing
- SurveillanceClose observation. and screeningTesting for a certain disease. behaviors
- ChemopreventionUsing drugs and their chemical reactions to stop cancer growth.
- Risk reduction surgeries
- Genetics research
- Clinical trialsA research study designed to test the safety and/or effectiveness of a drug, device or treatment.
After the Consultation
The health care practitioner at the medical center may suggest referrals or help you find the support (medical, psychological, nutritional, etc.) you need to work through your assessed risk. This is when a plan of how to manage your risk of cancer can be developed. If questions arise after the visit, the health care practitioner can help you and your family discuss your options and find answers to your questions.