Genetic Counseling
Genetic counselors are experts in hereditary cancer who will help you understand whether the cancer in your family is hereditary and what to do about it.
A genetic counselor will:
- Review your family health history and explain your risk for cancer.
- Discuss whether you are a candidate for gene testing and describe the benefits and limitations of testing.
- Help you order the appropriate genetic test if you choose to proceed with testing.
- Interpret gene test results and explain what they mean for you and your family.
- Discuss how to manage your cancer risk and provide recommendations in a written summary report to you and your doctor for follow-up care.
Hereditary Cancer
Hereditary cancers occur when a person carries a change (mutation) in a gene that normally protects the body from developing cancer. This change increases a person's risk for one or more types of cancer and can be passed from generation to generation.
Family History
Families with one of these mutations may have multiple cases of these cancers. That is why knowing your family history is an important first step in understanding your risks. Contact the Sarah Cannon Cancer Center at Parkridge Medical Center at (423) 493-1690 for a questionnaire to see if the cancer in your family may be hereditary.
Covered Preventive Services for Women
BRCA counseling about genetic testing for women at higher risk for hereditary breast cancer or Breast Cancer Chemo prevention counseling for women at higher risk for hereditary breast cancer.
For details on Genetic Counseling or Testing, call (423) 493-1690 and ask for the nurse navigator. You can also visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers.