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Genes can hold answers about cancer risk
Cancer is hereditary in some families. Understanding your genetic risk for cancer can help you make important decisions about screening and prevention.
Understanding
Hereditary Cancer
5–10% of cancers are hereditary and linked to inherited gene changes (mutations) that increase cancer risk. People who inherit these mutations are born with them and have a higher cancer risk than the general population. The level of risk and type of cancer varies, depending on the gene and mutation involved.
Could Hereditary Cancer Run In Your Family?
Hereditary Cancer Risk Checklist
No risk factors selected.
Based on your current answers, you may not have the typical risk indicators for hereditary cancer. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns – they may have additional reasons to consider testing.
Based on your responses, you may want to consider speaking with your healthcare provider about hereditary cancer genetic testing.
If your responses indicate that you may be at-risk for hereditary cancer, there are important next steps to take.
Not everyone who has a risk will necessarily go on to develop disease. Ambry’s genetic testing and counseling supports you and your healthcare provider in determining the best plan of action moving forward.*
*Your healthcare provider may identify other reasons why it may be beneficial for you to pursue genetic testing.
What Your Result Actually Means
Negative
A negative genetic test result can be reassuring, but personal and family medical history still affect cancer risk. Discuss next steps with your healthcare provider.
Genetic testing may still be appropriate for other family members to consider, depending on their medical histories.
Positive
A positive genetic test result confirms a higher risk for certain cancers. Specific medical care for cancer screening or prevention may be recommended based on the gene and mutation involved.
Close family members may also carry the same mutation. Genetic testing may be appropriate for them to consider.
VUS
VUS = Variant of Uncertain Significance. Until is understood about the science, medical care and cancer screening decisions should be based on a person’s personal and family history.
These test results can change over time as scientific knowledge grows. Ambry’s Patient for Life program monitors test results over time — if science advances, your healthcare provider will be notified
