Cancer risk counseling can provide peace of mind for you and your family members. With a comprehensive cancer risk assessment and genetic counseling, the reality of your risks can be determined. If it is found that a genetic change has increased your risk of cancer, you can then use this knowledge to take measures that may reduce your risk.
Reducing risks
Knowing you are at risk is invaluable in helping you and your healthcare provider manage your care. In most cases, there are three options for reducing cancer risks: increased surveillance, preventive medications and/or preventive surgery.
Genetics and cancer
After looking at your family history, it may be possible to take advantage of today’s technology of gene identification to give you and your family a better understanding of your cancer risks.
Cancer is thought to be the result of many factors, such as genetics, environmental exposure and lifestyle. Although the majority of cancers are not inherited, recent research has found that inheritance can greatly increase the likelihood of some cancers. Researchers have discovered that there is more cancer in certain families due to an abnormal gene that is passed from generation to generation.
The goal of genetic testing at the Ochsner Cancer Center of Acadiana - Crowley is to develop a personal risk plan to prevent cancer development or allow for early detection of the disease.
Are you at risk?
If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, talk to your physician or healthcare professional about a hereditary risk assessment.
- Do you or a family member have a history of cancer at an early age (before age 50)?
- Do you have several family members with the same type of cancer?
- Do you or a relative have more than one type of cancer diagnosis?
- Do you have a rare cancer that has occurred in your family, such as male breast cancer?
- Do you or anyone in your family have a diagnosis of ovarian cancer?
- Do you have Eastern European Jewish ancestors?