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AUG 03, 2023Being diagnosed with the big “C” word, CANCER, is distressing for most people. Most patients are thrown in to a whole...
Read MoreThe majority of cancers that develop are considered to be sporadic, due to environmental exposures and/or lifestyle choices. These account for about 70% of all cancers. Twenty percent of cancers develop due to similar lifestyles and exposures within a family. About 5-10% of all cancers are considered to be hereditary and develop due to a genetic mutation that is passed down through the generations.
You should consider looking into genetic counseling and testing if the following apply to you or members of your family:
The most common types of hereditary cancer syndrome are:
There are many other types of hereditary cancer syndromes.
If you or your family members have hereditary cancer syndrome present and a genetic mutation is identified upon testing, there are ways to manage that risk:
Many of the commercial genetic laboratories in the United States offer genetic testing for a hereditary cancer syndrome for approximately $250 out of pocket. Most insurance companies cover the genetic testing if certain criteria are met. If the insurance company covers the genetic testing then the individual will owe approximately $100 or less out of pocket. The cost of genetic testing for hereditary cancer has come down quite a bit over the past 7-8 years as new, more efficient techniques for sequencing and analyzing DNA has improved.
If you would like to learn more about your own cancer risk based on your personal risk factors as well as your family history you can schedule an appointment with a genetics professional. CHI Health has a Cancer Genetics Program. You are welcome to call the clinic and schedule an appointment.
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