Genetic Counseling
Genetic testing involves the use of laboratory methods on a blood sample to obtain an estimate of your cancer risk. You do not have to undergo genetic testing to participate in clinical genetic counseling and obtain a hereditary cancer risk assessment. Genetic testing may help you and your physician make important decisions about your medical care. Deciding whether or not to have genetic testing is a personal choice that can be made at the time of the counseling session or at a future date.
If you have a family history of cancer, genetic counseling can help you:
- determine if you and your family are at increased risk for certain types of cancer
- obtain personalized recommendations for cancer detection and prevention
- decide whether genetic testing is right for you
CGCP is available to anyone who is concerned about a personal or family history of cancer. A specially trained genetic counselor provides a personalized assessment of any hereditary cancer risk, discusses cancer detection and risk reduction options, and offers genetic testing when appropriate.
If you answer "yes" to any of the following questions, you may benefit from genetic counseling:
- Have you or a close relative been diagnosed with cancer at age 50 or younger?
- Has more than one member of your family been diagnosed with the same type of cancer?
- Has a member of your family been diagnosed with more than one type of cancer?
- Are you related to someone who is known to have an inherited characteristic that can cause cancer?
The faculty and staff of the Clinical Genetic Counseling Program understand that many personal factors must be considered when discussing detection, prevention and genetic testing options. These include your attitude, beliefs and your family's experience with cancer. Our genetic counselors and staff address your concerns with sensitivity and support, and tailor each counseling session to fit your personal needs.
During the initial 1 1/2- to 2-hour session, the genetic counselor will:
- address your questions and concerns about your risk for cancer and the possible risk for family members
- ask about your medical history and your family history of cancer
- discuss important scientific and medical information in terms you can understand
The goal of clinical genetic counseling is to provide understandable and medically important information about the genetic cancer risk factors in an atmosphere of support and education. Finally, you will have the opportunity to discuss:
- your individual cancer risk assessment
- your personalized recommendations and referrals for cancer detection and prevention
- whether genetic testing is appropriate for you based on the risks, benefits and limitations of the procedure
- the clinical genetics research studies available at UK Markey Cancer Center
- psychological counseling options if you need assistance in coping with hereditary cancer issues
CGCP will not release information about your hereditary cancer risk assessment to anyone other than you and your referring physician without your prior written consent.
If you think genetic counseling might be helpful, discuss it with your primary care physician.
For more information or to schedule an appointment call the UK Markey Cancer Center's Clinical Genetic Counseling Program at:
859-257-4488 or 1-866-340-4488 toll free
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