Category: Genetic Counselor

Posted 11 months ago

What are carriers?

Your genetic test result may not have identified an inherited genetic explanation for your personal or family history…

Posted 1 year ago

A Basic Guide to Cancer Genetics

Normally, we are born with two working copies of these cancer protection genes in each cell (as pictured below). It is normal for cells to divide and multiply, and sometimes certain genes acquire mutations along the way. Acquired mutations can happen due to a variety of reasons (both in and out of our control) that may include environmental exposures, certain infections, normal aging, and lifestyle factors (diet, activity level, tobacco use, alcohol use, sun exposure, etc.).

Posted 1 year ago

Talking to Family About a Positive Genetic Test Result

Finding out you tested positive for a gene mutation associated with an inherited risk for cancer can lead to experiencing feelings of anxiety, fear, or in some cases, even peace as it may provide clarity. Amidst the whirlwind of feelings running through your head, you think “who needs to know about this result?” and “what do I say?”. Because your result is indicative of a hereditary cancer risk, sharing your positive test result with family members is one of the most impactful things you can do. However, sometimes this is easier said than done.

Posted 2 years ago

What are the BRCA Genes?

It’s breast cancer awareness month, and with that comes an opportunity to provide education and recognition about the…

Posted 2 years ago

Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) Genetic Testing vs. Clinical Genetic Testing – What’s the difference?

It is near impossible to turn on the TV without seeing ads from companies wanting to use your DNA to provide information about your ancestry, long lost relatives, and even certain health or personal traits. But how do these direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests differ from what your doctor or genetic counselor may order? If you want to know more about your possible inherited disease risk, why make a trip into the clinic when you can just order the test online yourself, right? Well there are some important things to consider before ordering that test.

Posted 3 years ago

Talking to kids about BRCA

  Often parents find the prospect of speaking to their children about the presence of the BRCA gene…

Posted 3 years ago

Hereditary Skin Cancer

Here’s a shocking truth: About 40 – 50% of Americans who live to the age of 65 will…

Posted 3 years ago

Rare Disease Day

February 28th, 2021 is rare disease day; a day dedicated to raising awareness about rare diseases and their…

Posted 3 years ago

What is a Genetic Counselor?

This past November 12th marked the fourth annual Genetic Counselor Awareness Day. If you ask any genetic counselor…

Posted 3 years ago

Hereditary Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer has quietly become the fourth leading cause of cancer death in men and women in the…