GENETIC TESTING

In general, clues to the possibility of hereditary cancer include: two or more family members with cancer at young age (<50) and individuals who have had multiple primary cancers. Most cases of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer are due to mutations in either of two genes, BRCA1 or BRCA2. Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer, or HNPCC, is characterized by a high risk of early-onset colon cancer and endometrial cancer, in addition to an increased risk of cancer in the ovaries, stomach, kidney/urinary tract, brain, biliary tract, small bowel, and central nervous system.

Hereditary cancer risk assessment should be considered for patients whose personal or family histories meet any of the following criteria:

• Two or more women in the family with: breast cancer before age 50 or ovarian cancer at any age
• A woman who has had both breast cancer and ovarian cancer
• Individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with a personal or family history of breast cancer before age 50 or ovarian cancer at any age
• A personal or family history of male breast cancer
• Two or more individuals in the family with colon, endometrial,
  or any HNPCC-related cancer, at least one diagnosed
  before age 50
• Two or more of these cancers in one person
• Individuals with 20 or more cumulative colorectal adenomas

A cancer risk assessment appointment includes a detailed review of the family history, as well as education and counseling about the pros and cons of genetic testing. In addition, I am able to assist patients in determining insurance coverage for genetic testing. We can draw the blood for genetic testing at Bon Secours Health Center at Harbour View.

Contact the Bon Secours Center for Colon and Rectal Diseases for more information on genetic testing at 673-5970.

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