A person who thought to be at hereditary risk for cancer could seek advice from this team regarding the various options for follow-up care based on one's risk. Genetic counseling before genetic testing helps individuals to make a truly informed decision about whether testing is right for them. Genetic counseling is necessary after testing to explain the meaning and implications of the test result. The role of the genetic counselor is to evaluate the likelihood of a genetic trait being responsible for cancer in an individual or their family. Genetic counselors also help persons understand the genetic, medical, psychological, and other issues related to genetic testing.
Cancer is a general term for uncontrolled cell growth.
The cells in our bodies receive signals telling the cell when to multiply and when to stop growing. For example, when you cut your skin, the cells are stimulated to grow, the wound is healed and then the cells' growth slows to normal rates. The skin does not continue to grow beyond normal limits. In cancer, however, the cells are not getting the proper signals to start or stop growth, so they continue to grow without regulation. A group of cells growing uncontrollably is called a tumor.