The Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program is a team comprised of specialists including geneticists, genetic counselors, physicians and nurse practitioners, who work together to provide cancer risk assessment and take steps to prevent the development of cancer. The program goals include:
Patients seen in the Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention program will typically first meet with a genetic counselor. Genetic counselors are licensed medical professionals with advanced training in genetics who help patients understand and adapt to the medical, psychological and familial implications of genetic contributions to diseases such as cancer. The cancer genetic counseling process includes:
Patients considered to be at increased risk for cancer can choose to consult with the appropriate programs, where clinicians provide a personalized cancer risk-reduction and screening plan, including medical and surgical options. These high risk cancer prevention programs include:
If needed, the program can also assist with arranging consultations with other specialists or surgeons for a multidisciplinary approach to cancer prevention and surveillance.
You are coming to the Smilow Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program to meet with a provider, in our clinic, to discuss your medical history and your family's history of cancer.
Genetic testing may be ordered at the end of your appointment. If you decide to have genetic testing, you will go to the lab to have your blood drawn for genetic testing.
You will go down the hall to the lab where you will have your blood drawn for genetic testing.
A blood sample will be taken from you and sent to the laboratory for genetic testing. The genetic testing may help to identify if the cancer in your family is hereditary and if you have a higher risk for cancer.
Our provider will call you to discuss your test results.
If required, you will meet with a clinician to discuss appropriate medical management recommendations, implications for family members, and support resources.
