Cancer & Genetics

Cancer & Genetics

A family history of cancer is scary. Our genetic counselors help families understand their risks.

Some people have a higher risk for cancer due to inherited genetic mutations. Recognizing this risk can allow for earlier detection and even prevention of some cancers. Are you concerned about cancer in your family?

Genetic counseling and testing can help you determine if you or others in your family may have an inherited genetic risk for cancer and help guide you through the process of screening and medical management for individuals at higher risk.

Understanding Hereditary Cancer & Genetic Testing

Cancer is unfortunately very common, affecting approximately 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women during their lifetime. Although most cancers are not inherited, some families do have a higher risk for cancer than others. Genetic counseling and testing can help determine if there may be an inherited genetic risk for cancer in your family and who in your family is at higher risk for cancer. It can also help guide the appropriate screening and medical management for individuals at higher risk.

Here we discuss the connection between genes and cancer, provides an overview of the genetic testing process, and touches on some important considerations when deciding whether or not to pursue cancer genetic testing.

Do you have concerns about your cancer risks?

A Personalized Cancer Risk Assessment can help you understand your risks. Get answer to FAQ's about the assessment or schedule an appointment, in-person or via telehealth.

Hereditary Cancer Predispositions

Cancer is a complicated disease, and often several factors, including genetics, environmental factors (such as exposures to toxins and/or chemicals), and lifestyle can impact your risk. There are some common hereditary cancer predispositions, though. Genetic counseling and testing can help you understand your hereditary cancer risk.

Have questions?

If you still have questions about hereditary cancer predisposition and what it means for your health, we encourage you to talk with one of our genetic counselors.

Cascade Screening Connector

Genetic Support Foundation has partnered with the Washington State Department of Health to provide cascade screening to help people identify and contact family members who may have an increased chance of developing cancer. This program is available to anyone in Washington state with hereditary cancer risk.

The Cascade Screening Connector service provided by the Washington State Department of Health helps connect family members who are at risk for hereditary cancer syndromes with appropriate health services.

AliveAndKickn is a nonprofit working to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by Lynch Syndrome and associated cancers through research, education, and screening.

The FORCE mission is to improve the lives of individuals and families facing hereditary cancer. Resources include peer navigation and expert-reviewed information.

This national research project brings patient voices into the healthcare experience and features video clips of people from a variety of backgrounds facing hereditary cancer.

Scroll to Top