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Genetic Counseling
One in three people will develop cancer in his or her lifetime. Though scientists are still learning about the causes of cancer, it is known that both environmental and hereditary (family history) factors play a part.
Most cancers are not hereditary. In families with hereditary cancer, generally, more than one member will have been diagnosed with cancer and/or one individual will have been diagnosed with cancer at a younger age.
If one or more of the following situations applies to you or your immediate family, there is an increased chance that your breast cancer was hereditary:
- Breast cancer diagnosed before age 50
- Two different cancers in one person.
- Breast cancer diagnosed in two or more relatives.
- Two or more relatives diagnosed with related cancers, such as breast and ovarian.
- If your breast cancer was due to a genetic change, you may be at higher risk for other cancers. It could change your physician's plan for your health screening. Because genetic changes are passed along in families, other family members may also be at higher risk for some types of cancer. Their doctors may recommend more frequent cancer screening.
Use the Search Tool below to find a certified genetic counselor in your area.
Genetic Testing And Health Insurance Protection
Federal and state laws state that genetic testing results cannot be considered a pre-existing condition for people who have not been diagnosed with cancer but may be at a higher risk to develop cancer. These laws protect health insurance, group disability insurance, and long-term care.
In May 2008, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) was signed into law. This legislation protects people against inappropriate use of their genetic information by health insurers and employers. Fear of employment or health insurance discrimination has been a barrier to pursuing genetic testing for many high risk people. The new GINA law bans use of genetic information in underwriting, enrollment, and coverage decisions by group and individual health insurers and in employment-related decisions. Treatment of cancer is complicated. During this time, your doctors are focused on treatment and recovery from cancer.
If you are concerned about your family history, talk to your physician about a cancer risk assessment or contact one of the genetic counselors listed in this directory.
- Lisen Axell, Genetic Counselor, University of Colorado at Denver