Genetic Counseling

If you meet one or more of the risk factors for cancer, you should seek genetic counseling with a Certified Genetic Counselor.  To help you prepare for a cancer risk assessment with a genetic counselor, you should obtain the following:  

• Information about family members who have had cancer
• Specific cancer diagnosis (second primary cancer vs. recurrent cancer)
• Age at cancer diagnosis
• Copies of any medical reports available (pathology reports, genetic test results, death certificates, etc.)
• Information about family members who have not had cancer
• Current age or age of death in family members diagnosed with cancer
• Screening practices (mammography, CA-125, age screening was initiated, etc.)
• Any risk-reducing behaviors such as chemoprevention (e.g. tamoxifen, bilateral oopherectomy, etc.

For more information on genetic counseling, and to find a counselor in your area, please visit the National Society of Genetic Counselors.