Introduction to the Cancer Risk and Prevention Program

ByStephanieSharp,MS,CGC,GeneticsProgramManager

What Do Cancer Genetic Counselors Do?

Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals with advanced training in medical genetics and psychosocial counseling who partner with patients seeking information about inherited conditions affecting them or their families. A cancer genetic counselor works with patients and their providers to:

• Explore personal and family health history to better understand genetic risks for cancer

• Discuss the medical and emotional implications of genetic information and cancer

• Determine if cancer genetic testing is appropriate for patients and their families

Is Cancer Hereditary?

People with cancer often wonder what caused the disease. Relatives of those with cancer are often concerned that they may also be at increased risk for getting cancer. About 5-10% of cancers are hereditary. Hereditary cancers occur because of an inherited change (mutation) in certain genes that normally protect the body from developing cancer. This change increases a person’s risk for one or more cancers and can be passed down in families from one generation to the next.

Who Should Have Cancer Genetic Assessment and Counseling?

Experts recommend assessment if you or your family members meet any of these risk factors:

• Have three or more family members on your mother’s or father’s side of the family with the same type of cancer

• Have more than 1 type of cancer

• Have a diagnosis of cancer at an unusually young age

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• Have a clustering of cancers in the family fitting a known pattern, such as breast and ovarian cancer occurring on the same side of the family

• Have a family member with an abnormal cancer-related genetic test result

Why Should I Consider Genetic Counseling or Testing?

Information can be power! Your genetic test results could impact your options for detecting, preventing, and treating hereditary cancer. Sharing your test results with relatives can help them learn more about their own cancer risk and provide them with medical options for staying healthy.

Is Genetic Counseling and Testing Covered by Insurance?

Most insurance companies cover the cost for genetic counseling and testing for people who meet the risk factors. The Cancer Risk and Prevention team can help determine whether you qualify for genetic services under your health insurance plan.

How Do I Find Out More?

Stay tuned! We will share additional information and updates about our program and about hereditary cancer in future editions of this newsletter. You can talk to your oncologist or other healthcare provider to find out if cancer genetic counseling might be beneficial for you and your family.

You can contact our program at 207-396-7270 or CancerRiskandPrevent@mainehealth.org.

For more information on hereditary cancer, visit https://www.facingourrisk.org/ For more information on genetic counseling, visit https://www.aboutgeneticcounselors.org/