Comprehensive Breast Center

Family Risk Program/Genetic testing

A family history of cancer has long been known as a strong risk factor for the development of cancer. This has been confirmed by recent discoveries of genes that can significantly increase an individual's risk to develop cancer. Individuals are often confused about their genetic risks. They want to know if they are at increased risk,what steps they can take to reduce those risks, and whether they are candidates for genetic testing. The Family Risk Program is both clinical surveillance and educational program in which people concerned about their family histories of cancer can receive appropriate surveillance, education, genetic counseling and, if appropriate, genetic testing.