A genetic evaluation begins with a consultation where you will meet with a genetics counselor who will collect information about your personal and/or family cancer history and your personal risk factors. At your appointment, our genetic counselors will:
- Create your genetic pedigree. This family tree diagram will include multiple generations of your family, list any cancer diagnoses and age at diagnosis.
- Perform a cancer risk assessment
- Discuss the genetic factors associated with specific cancers
- Recommend cancer screenings and prevention options
- Address any concerns about genetic issues
- Address personal, psychological, social, ethical and legal issues involved cancer genetic testing
- Determine whether genetic testing is right for you and which tests are recommended for you.
How is genetic testing performed?
Genetic testing analyzes your DNA from a simple blood sample. Increasingly, genetic testing is covered by medical insurance plans. However, if you do not have coverage, testing is generally not expensive and programs to help with the cost are available.
It takes approximately 3 weeks to get your results.
What’s next?
Once we have the results of your genetic testing, you’ll have an appointment where we’ll explain the findings and what they mean for you and your family. Then, we’ll outline how we can help you monitor your health, optimize wellness, and reduce your risk for developing cancer.
Roswell Park’s Genetics team will provide you a path forward and coordinate the care you may need from here. Whether it’s specific tests or scans, medications or preventive measures, we will guide and empower you. Let us worry about cancer; you live your life.