Cancer genetic counseling and testing

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About 5 to 10 percent of all cancers are hereditary. At Advocate Health Care, we offer comprehensive risk assessments and genetic testing to identify high-risk patients and provide personalized care plans, if needed.

Should I consider genetic counseling?

There are a variety of reasons where genetic counseling is strongly recommended, including:

Earlier than usual age of onset of cancer (younger than 50)
More than one type of cancer in the same individual
Several family members with cancer
Bilateral cancer in paired organs (breasts, eyes, kidneys)
Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with breast, ovarian, colon or pancreatic cancer
A rare cancer such as fallopian tube cancer or male breast cancer
More than one childhood cancer like sarcoma or leukemia
Family member with a known gene mutation like BRCA or cancer predisposition syndrome, such as Lynch, familial adenomatous polyposis, hereditary breast/ovarian cancer, multiple endocrine neoplasia or Li Fraumeni syndrome.

If any of these factors apply to you, schedule an appointment.

What to expect

During your appointment, you and your genetics provider will:

Review the medical history of both you and your family
Assess your personal risk for cancer
Identify family members who may have an increased risk for cancer
Review information about the genetics of cancer predisposition
Discuss appropriate screening tests and medical evaluations
Discuss genetic testing, including the risks, benefits and limitations
Arrange genetic testing if appropriate
Discuss laws that protect against genetic discrimination by health insurers and employers
Identify useful resources, including support groups and research studies
Refer to other appropriate specialists

Our comprehensive services

During your visit, you will meet with one of our experts who will assess your risk for cancer by asking questions about your personal medical history, family's medical history, lifestyle and environmental exposures.

Individuals with a genetic predisposition have a far greater chance of developing certain cancers within their lifetime, typically at an earlier age of onset. Genetic risk assessments can help determine whether a family has a hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome and who may be at risk.

Our specialists will discuss the option of genetic testing and the likelihood of identifying an issue based on your personal history as well as your family's. You'll have a complete educational session focused on the risks, benefits and limitations of genetic testing. Our experts will also discuss the emotional aspects of knowing your cancer risk. You can then decide if you want to go through the process.

Results of genetic testing typically take two to four weeks to complete. We review them in person or by phone.

If risks are discovered, a cancer surveillance and risk-reduction plan is designed by our multidisciplinary team. Our specialists also identify support groups and other resources as well as help obtain insurance coverage prior to testing.

Individuals who have a hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome are at risk of developing certain cancers in their lifetime and are recommended to follow high-risk cancer surveillance and management.

Benefits of genetic testing

Individuals who go through genetic testing could see an improvement in their health and quality of life because it may:

Identify a cause of cancer
Identify family members, such as children or siblings, who have an increased risk of cancer and may benefit from screening
Find no increased risk of cancer
Help develop an individualized cancer screening schedule
Aid in decision-making about risk-reducing surgery
Alter cancer treatment

Advocate Aurora Hereditary Cancer Clinic

Our mission: The purpose of the Advocate Aurora Hereditary Cancer Clinics is to address the prevention and cancer risk management needs of patients and their at-risk relatives with hereditary cancer conditions as well as to provide continuity and coordination of care. Our team: Medical oncologists, genetic counselors, nNavigators, and assistants Our services:

Education: Discussion of the hereditary cancer syndrome and implications for the individual and family
Care: Physical examination when appropriate, review of previous screening evaluations, and ongoing coordination of screening recommendations and follow-up
Family testing: Family members are encouraged to attend to learn more and to discuss genetic testing