“Do I have to go to a geneticist for genetic testing?”
I am a 35 year old male and cancer runs in my family. I want to go for genetic testing to help me see if there's anything notable, but I'm not sure where to start.
4 Answers
Recommend speaking to your healthcare provider, who can provide a referral after understanding your family history and concerns. In addition, a meeting with a genetic counselor specializing in cancer genetics or a cancer geneticist might be indicated.
For cancer-related counseling, most genetic departments have certified genetic counselors. They can offer you a video consult and you can send a sample for testing (buccal swab), without personally attending the genetics clinics.
Dr. Eva Morava
Dr. Eva Morava
Ask your physician to refer you to a genetic center for consultation with a genetic counselor who specializes in testing people at risk for cancer to determine your risk, and what test is available for the cancer in your family.
Geneticists or also professionals called Genetic Counselors can also be of help! These Masters-trained counselors can discuss your personal and family history, identify the best candidates for testing (which may often be a relative first), discuss the types of genes which should be tested, and identify cost-effective laboratories who can work with your insurance plan to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Find a counselor near you by going to www.nsgc.org
Find a counselor near you by going to www.nsgc.org