Some individuals are born with genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing cancer during their lifetime. These mutations may be inherited from either a mother or a father. While simply having a genetic mutation does not mean you will definitely get cancer, it does increase your risk.
To set up a personalized genetic risk evaluation please call 971.708.7600.
We are now in the era of personalized medicine and genetic counseling. Your genes can predict your risk of cancer, and certain genetic tests may help your doctors provide better treatment options. If you have cancer in your family, you may be at higher risk. You can talk to one of our genetic counselors to see if genetic testing for cancer would be right for you and your family.
Consider scheduling a personalized genetic risk evaluation with Compass Oncology genetic counselor if you or any family member on either side of your family meet any of the following criteria of the syndromes outlined below.
Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndromes:
- Breast cancer diagnosed at age 50 or younger
- Two breast cancers or both breast and ovarian/fallopian tube cancer, in the same person
- Ashkenazi or Jewish heritage
- A family history with breast cancer, ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, endometrial cancer, pancreatic cancer, brain tumors, gastric cancer, leukemia, or lymphoma
- Member of a family with a known mutation in a breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA1, BRCA2, etc.)
- Any male breast cancer
- Any ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer
Hereditary Colon Cancer Syndromes:
- Colon cancer diagnosed at age 50 or younger
- Colon cancer at any age with a second cancer at any age, including colon, endometrial, gastric, and ovarian cancer
- Anyone with colon cancer at any age who also has a parent/sibling/child with colon cancer, endometrial cancer, gastric cancer, or ovarian cancer diagnosed before age 50
- Adenomatous polyps of the colon in an individual with a family history of colon cancer
- Endometrial cancer diagnosed at age 45 or younger
- Two or more relatives with colon cancer
Visit our "Genetics of Colon and Rectal Cancers" webpage to learn more.
Since the technology for testing has progressed over the years, our genetic counselors also encourage anyone that meets any of the criteria outlined above but received a negative genetic test prior to 2013, to be retested. New genes associated with cancer risks and syndromes have been identified and are now included in updated panel-based testing.
Most insurance will cover genetic testing for patients who meet basic criteria. Our counselors are available to help you determine if you meet these criteria. To schedule your appointment, please call 971.708.7600.