It is often helpful to obtain medical records and death certificates whenever possibly in order to verify each cancer diagnosis. The cancer risk team will discuss the possible role of genetics in a person's family, the emotional issues regarding the risks of cancer, cancer screening and cancer risk reduction recommendations tailored to the individual's level of risk, and the availability of genetic testing for certain cancers including the risks, benefits, and limitations of genetic testing. At some centers, it may also be possible to have a physical examination by a clinical oncologist or gynecological oncologist during your visit. While anyone can benefit from cancer risk assessment, it may be especially helpful for individuals that have a parent or sibling with cancer, breast and other cancers within a family with early ages of occurrence, multiple first or second-degree relatives with breast or ovarian cancer, if a genetic alteration in a BRCA gene has been identified in the family, if there is male breast cancer in the family, or if someone is just anxious about breast cancer in general. Currently, genetic testing is available for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations on a clinical basis.
Mutation testing is most informative when performed on a family member that has had cancer.
If a mutation is identified in that individual, this will assist with their cancer management. Once a mutation is identified in a family, anyone can be tested for that specific mutation. Traditionally the consideration of genetic testing takes place in a multi-step format. Many centers require that the individual considering testing have a complete educational session with a genetic counselor. At this appointment the risks, benefits, and limitations of genetic testing are reviewed extensively.