Cancer genetic testing & counseling

In recent years, research has found a number of genes related to hereditary cancer risk. Estimates suggest between 5% and 10% of all cancers are due to an inherited gene mutation.

If you carry one of these inherited genetic mutations, you may have a significantly higher lifetime cancer risk compared to the general population. By considering personal and family medical histories, we can identify if you could benefit from meeting with a genetic counselor for a hereditary cancer risk assessment and potential genetic testing (DNA testing).

What is DNA testing?

Genetic testing (or DNA testing) for cancer risk doesn’t reveal the presence or absence of cancer. Instead, it shows whether you have an increased risk of developing cancer. A positive result in a genetic screening doesn’t mean you’ll definitely develop cancer in the future. Instead, it can help you find ways to minimize your cancer risk and help you stay ahead of the cancer if it does develop.

Who should consider DNA testing?

DNA testing for cancer risk may be appropriate if you have:

• Concern or anxiety about your personal or hereditary cancer risk
• Family members diagnosed with cancer at an early age
• More than one family member on the same side of your family with the same cancer
• Bilateral cancer (cancer occurring in both organs like breasts or lungs) or more than one primary cancer
• Two or more generations of your family affected by cancer
• A cancer diagnosis along with being of Ashkenazi Jewish decent
• Interest in screening for diseases common among your ethnic group
• Interest in genetic testing for cancer genes and an interest in discussing cancer risk management options (genetic counseling, screening, preventive surgery and chemoprevention)

What to expect from DNA testing

During your visit, the genetic counselor will talk to you about your genetic concerns and review your family cancer history at length. From there, a medical geneticist may perform a physical exam and administer tests, which could include a blood draw, a urine sample or a cheek swab.

In many cases, we may send your results to a lab for DNA analysis, where they may be tested for any genetic mutations.

Incorporating genetic counseling in your cancer care

Though there aren't physical risks involved with genetic testing, there can be a psychological impact. That’s why we recommend your cancer care include genetic counseling alongside DNA testing.

Our genetic counselors can assess your cancer risk for a variety of hereditary medical conditions like cancer, genetic disorders and birth defects. The process includes reviewing the pattern and ages of cancer diagnosis in your family and discussing whether those results suggest an inherited predisposition to cancer.

We'll consider the basic principles of genetics and inheritance, whether the appropriate genetic testing is available and also the costs, risks and benefits of testing.

The goal of cancer genetic testing is to help you better understand what genetic diseases might mean for you, so you know your options and can choose the best cancer care for your needs.

Genetic counseling and testing for cancer provides:

• Confidential hereditary cancer risk assessment
• Access to ongoing local and national cancer research studies
• Education for patients
• Genetic testing and DNA banking or long-term storage of your DNA when appropriate

Use our search tool to find a certified genetic counselor who's right for you.

Testing for hereditary cancers

Families with hereditary cancer syndromes (inherited gene mutations that increase your risk of developing cancer) are at high risk for multiple types of cancer. Even families whose genetic testing results are normal may be at increased risk for multiple cancers if they have complex cancer histories.

If your family history of cancer has been determined to be hereditary, or if your complex family history can’t be explained by DNA testing, we can provide comprehensive cancer care from a multidisciplinary team of experts in a single, convenient location.

Aurora Hereditary Cancer Prevention and Management Center

The Aurora Hereditary Cancer Prevention and Management Center (HCPMC) specializes in testing and monitoring individuals and families with complex or difficult hereditary cancer conditions.

Through the HCPMC, you can:

• Gain a deeper understanding of your overall cancer risks
• Receive a customized medical management plan that addresses your unique cancer risks
• Stay updated on the latest genetic tests and research related to your hereditary cancer syndrome
• Monitor your risks through long-term cancer care with a dedicated cancer prevention team

If you’re at risk for multiple types of cancer, ask your doctor for a referral to the Aurora Hereditary Cancer Prevention and Management Center in Milwaukee or Green Bay.

The HCPMC in Milwaukee is located within the Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center. The HCPMC in Green Bay is located within the Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinic at Aurora BayCare Medical Center.

Call 877-647-2502 for more information.

Providing top-of-the-line cancer care

In addition to quality medical care and genetic testing centers, we offer additional cancer care resources:

• Cancer clinical trials
• Cancer nurse navigators
• Mental health and counseling resources

To learn more about your genetic counseling and DNA testing options, call 877-647-2502. You can also print a genetic counseling referral form [PDF] for your doctor.

Genetic counseling & testing locations