Cancer Genetic Testing
Genetic testing is the process of determining your precise genetic
make-up, typically looking at very specific genes that are known to
increase the risk of developing a disease. Genetic testing may be
indicated if you or a family member has been diagnosed with a cancer
that has a genetic component.
Who should consider cancer genetic testing?
Individuals who have a reasonable likelihood of carrying a genetic
change predisposing them to a higher cancer risk are offered available
genetic tests.
Genetic testing is recommended only after discussing the
significance and implications of potential outcomes including finding
a positive result, a negative result and an indeterminate result.
Patients who opt for testing should be confident that they
understand the meaning of their test result and this should allow them
to make more informed choices about their cancer risk management.
Stanford expertise
Stanford's
Cancer Center doctors and researchers have been instrumental in
developing many of the leading technologies used to understand,
diagnose, test, and screen for hereditary cancer syndromes. This
expertise allows our specialists to offer you personalized plans for
managing your cancer risk.
If appropriate, genetic testing is offered to at-risk individuals,
but only after the benefits, risks and limits of each test are
carefully considered.
Choosing if and when to test is ultimately a very personal decision.
Our goals are to educate people about familial cancer, provide clear
options for medical or surgical interventions, and enhance the quality
of life for high-risk cancer families.