Most cancers are not inherited. However, for some people, the risk for developing certain kinds of cancer does run in their family.
At Inova, cancer genetic counseling is provided by board-certified genetic counselors that specialize in cancer risk assessment and the latest genetic testing technologies. Your cancer genetic counselor will:
- Review your medical history, your family history of cancer, any other cancer risk factors, and prior genetic testing results, if applicable
- Explain the different ways we can estimate your risk for developing certain kind(s) of cancer
- Describe the likelihood that your personal and/or family history of cancer is due to inherited risk
- Discuss the benefits, limitations and risks of genetic testing
- Recommend and coordinate appropriate genetic testing
- Interpret and fully explain your genetic test results to you
- Provide you with personalized cancer screening and prevention recommendations