Genetic Testing & Risk Assessment
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Genetic Testing & Risk Assessment
Harrison’s cancer risk assessment
There are several well-known factors that contribute to cancer: lifestyle, heredity, and environment. We know that certain cancers can occur within the same family several times. They include:
- Breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Colon cancer
- Prostate cancer
When you have family members with the same disease, it’s natural for you to worry. At Harrison we offer hope. Our cancer risk assessment helps determine if you’re at risk of getting the disease. You can then work on prevention.
The assessment includes a thorough questionnaire about your family’s medical history and your lifestyle. Afterwards we give you an individualized plan. It includes recommendations about:
- Cancer screenings
- Genetic testing
- Prevention
Harrison offers both risk assessment and genetic testing at our cancer center in Bremerton. A nurse practitioner with advanced training in cancer genetics and one of our physicians will closely review your family and medical history. If we recommend genetic testing, we’ll explain the reasons, the test, and the possible results.
Assessment and testing are especially useful if certain situations exist in your family such as:
- A rare cancer
- Cancer in a few close relatives
- Cancer in relatives under 50 years of age
- The same relative with more than one cancer
Genetic testing for cancer
Not everyone needs genetic testing, but it is valuable for those who do. It can help you prevent certain types of hereditary cancer. You won’t necessarily get the disease just because family members have it.
Genetic testing consists of a small blood sample. We look for changes in your genes that determine if you’re at risk for cancer. Harrison specialists create a risk management plan—tailored for you. It includes recommendations for cancer screenings, which can help lower your risk.
With Harrison’s genetic testing, you will receive counseling to answer your questions and address your concerns. As always, we keep your information strictly confidential.
If you already have cancer, testing may help you:
- Understand why
- Know the risk of getting related cancers
- Decide the best treatment plan
For more information, please talk with your doctor or call Harrison Medical Center at 360-744-1825.