What happens in a genetic counselling appointment?

The goal of genetic counselling is to help people to learn more about hereditary forms of cancer and to understand their own risk of developing cancer. Genetic counselling includes:

• a review of genes and how they are passed down from parents to children
• a review of current information about genes and cancer
• a detailed review of the "family tree", with special attention to identifying anyone who has had cancer
• talking about differences between "sporadic" cancers (which occur by chance so everyone has same risk) and "hereditary" cancers (which seem to run in families and may be linked to a specific gene mutation)
• interpreting the pattern of cancer that appears in the family history and its significance to an individual woman or man in the family; some people may learn that their cancer risk is much lower than they thought it was, and others may learn that their risk is higher
• discussion about whether or not genetic testing, to try to identify a specific gene mutation, is possible for the individual and/or their family members
• discussion about how to decide whether or not to have genetic testing, including the possible impact on family relationships and other risks, benefits and limitations
• current recommendations for cancer screening options related to early detection and/or prevention of cancers

Is genetic testing for "hereditary cancer genes" available in B.C.?

In some cases, detailed review of the family history suggests that a specific gene may be involved. Testing for some genes is now possible, and more will become available as technology and resources improve. 

Genetic testing is available for some hereditary cancer syndromes and is discussed within a genetic counselling appointment. Genetic counselling remains a very important part of any decision about genetic testing.

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Reviewed August 17, 2009