Title of article :
Cancer Risk Assessment and the Genetic Counseling Process: Using Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer as an Example
Author/Authors :
Prucka, Sandra K. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Department of Genetics, USA , McIlvried, Dawn E. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Department of Genetics, USA , Korf, Bruce R. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Department of Genetics, USA
Abstract :
While only a small proportion of cancers can be attributed to a hereditary susceptibility, identifying high-risk individuals plays an essential role in medical management and has a significant impact on the patient as well as their immediate and extended family members. This paper aims at increasing the medical professionals’ knowledge of the components of a genetic counseling session, with particular attention toward identifying at-risk individuals and understanding the complexities of the testing process. In addition, tools are provided to assist in identifying these individuals in clinical practice and streamlining the referral process to a cancer genetics center.
Keywords :
Qualitative and quantitative risk assessment , Hereditary cancer , Genetic counseling , Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome
Journal title :
Medical Principles and Practice
Journal title :
Medical Principles and Practice
