Genetic counsellors are experts who can help you understand your risk of developing cancer. They can discuss your family history of cancer and review and explain the results of any genetic testing you may have had done.
You may want to see a genetic counsellor if you or a family member (on your mother's or father's side) have had any of the following:
- Young age at diagnosis of cancer (for example, under 35 years old)
- Rare cancers (for example, male breast cancer, serous ovarian cancer)
- Multiple cancer primaries in one individual
- Multiple individuals in family with related cancer types (for example, breast and ovarian cancer)
- A mutation has been found in your family
When you meet with a genetic counsellor, you will have the opportunity to discuss:
- Your individual cancer risk
- The latest advances in cancer genetics
- Personalized cancer screening recommendations and referrals
- The risks, benefits and limitations of genetic testing
- Options for participating in research studies
