Genetic Testing and Counseling Services

Each of us has millions of cells in our bodies. Inside each of those cells is our DNA, which is organized into genes. Our genes provide instructions for proteins to be formed and carry out different functions in our bodies such as to grow and regenerate cells for the different body parts and their functions. The DNA in our genes is made up of a code of four chemical bases and each gene has a specific order of these letters.

When there is a genetic mutation, the instructions in the genes is altered. This can prevent a gene from working properly either causing certain diseases or causing the abnormal and rapid growth of certain cells (e.g. in the case on cancerous tumors). In the case of cancer genes, if a genetic mutation is present, that person may have a higher chance of developing certain types of cancer throughout their life.

In general, about 5 to 10 percent of all cancers are hereditary. However, this percentage can vary for certain types of cancers. For example - 15-20% of Breast and Ovarian cancer is hereditary. As not all cancers or inherited diseases are caused by genes or genetic mutations, You should consult with a genetic counselor or genetic expert to help you make the assessment of whether Genetic testing is right for you.

In general, some indications that may suggest a possible hereditary risk of cancer in an individual or family include:

• receiving a cancer diagnosis at a young age (usually age 50 for breast or colon cancer)
• receiving a diagnosis of rare cancer at any age
• having multiple people in a family diagnosed with the same or related cancers
• having multiple primary cancer diagnoses in the same person
• having cancer in both sides of a paired organ (for example, both breasts or both kidneys)
• being of certain ethnic backgrounds
• when individuals or families have had some type of genetic mutation identified through genetic testing by another doctor, hospital, or company

Genetic counselors are trained, licensed professionals with training in science of Genetics and in the fields of Pscychology and Counseling. Genetic Counselors help you make decisions about your genetic health. Genetic counseling can help you understand how genes affect you and your family’s health and how to manage or treat diseases based on genetic test results.

The number of diseases that are passed on through your genes is on the rise. However, family history of a disease does not always mean risk is high for everyone in the family. If you are concerned about your personal or family history, genetic testing may help you understand your individual risk factors and how others in your family may be affected.