
Genetic Counseling and Testing for Hereditary Cancers.
Understanding your genetic risk for cancer can save your life. Genetic counseling and testing play a vital role in identifying hereditary mutations that increase the likelihood of developing breast, ovarian, and other cancers. Knowing your genetic status empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and take proactive steps toward prevention or early detection.
Hereditary mutations are genetic changes passed down through families that increase the risk of certain cancers. While the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are among the most well-known for significantly elevating the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, other mutations linked to hereditary cancer syndromes include: TP53 (associated with Li-Fraumeni syndrome), CHEK2, PALB2, ATM, RAD51C/D, MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2 (associated with Lynch syndrome, linked to ovarian and uterine cancers)
What are hereditary mutations?
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Assessing your personal and family history to determine your risk level.
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Identifying if you carry a gene mutation that increases cancer risk.
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Offering recommendations for enhanced screening, risk-reducing strategies, or preventive measures.
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Providing information to your family members about their potential risks.
Testing is recommended for individuals with:
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A personal or family history of early-onset breast cancer (diagnosed before age 50).
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Multiple family members with breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer.
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Male breast cancer in the family.
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Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, which is associated with a higher prevalence of BRCA mutations.
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Known genetic mutations in the family.
Why consider genetic counseling and testing?
Early detection saves lives. Breast cancers detected in the early stages have a 5-year survival rate of over 90%. Ovarian cancer, when detected early, also has a significantly higher survival rate compared to advanced stages. Genetic testing enables personalized risk management, helping individuals:
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Consider preventive surgeries, such as mastectomy or salpingo-oophorectomy.
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Opt for chemoprevention with medications to reduce risk.
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Begin screening earlier than standard guidelines recommend.
Why early dedication matters
If you’re considering genetic testing, the process often begins with a genetic counseling session. A licensed genetic counselor will:
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Review your medical and family history.
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Discuss the benefits, limitations, and potential outcomes of genetic testing.
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Provide a personalized risk assessment and actionable next steps.
Knowing your genetic status allows you to take control of your health and offers peace of mind. Don’t wait for symptoms—be proactive in protecting yourself and your family. Reach out to a genetic counselor or healthcare provider to explore your options today. NothingPink is here to connect you with available resources.
Take the first step
If you would like to enroll in Myriad’s Financial Assistance program, please complete your application below. In order to verify your eligibility, please enter your email address and upload your most recent 1040 tax form. Our billing department will contact you if they have any questions.
58%
of people are eligible1 for financial assistance.
Myriad Financial Assistance Application
At your request, we will conduct a personalized assessment of your financial need, which takes into account your location, household size, and income. Apply for the program, and our Billing Support team will review the information and provide options unique to you based on your needs.
To apply for the program:
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Provide the requested financial information at the bottom of the Test Requisition Form
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Complete and return the Patient Signature Card included in each test kit
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Download and complete the Patient Assistance Program application
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Our Specialty Testing Services Team is dedicated to supporting patients and providers by verifying coverage and obtaining preauthorization when required. If out-of-pocket costs are estimated to be over $100, we will contact the provider/patient prior to testing.
Quest Diagnostics offers a reimbursement support program for patients who meet the necessary criteria for testing. Upon receipt of a fully completed order and a patient blood sample, our team will verify coverage of your patient’s plan and quickly determine their likely out-of-pocket responsibility.
We also provide financial assistance to eligible patients as part of our commitment to keep testing affordable.
Compassionate Care Program
If a patient is uninsured or is concerned about their ability to pay for Natera genetic testing, they can contact us at Tel:+1.650.489.9050 option 2 | oncologybilling@natera.comLabcorp is committed to making genetic testing accessible and affordable. Labcorp is an in-network laboratory with many health plans, and many patients’ testing will be covered by insurance. For uninsured patients, we have a number of options available.
Our billing team will proactively contact you before you receive a bill if your out-of-pocket responsibility is determined to exceed $100. Patients with an out-of-pocket responsibility over $100 will receive an automated call from us. If the responsibility is over $250, we will follow up again with a live call. If you have a concern, you can call our billing team directly at 833-941-0828.
Breast Cancer Screening
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MRI Scans: Breast MRIs are more sensitive than mammograms, especially for individuals with dense breast tissue or high genetic risk. They can detect smaller tumors and identify cancer earlier.
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Mammograms: Annual mammograms remain essential, with 3D mammography offering improved detection rates over traditional 2D imaging.
Ovarian Caner Screening
Unlike breast cancer, there are no highly effective screening methods for ovarian cancer. However, proactive measures include:
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Pelvic Ultrasound: Transvaginal ultrasounds can detect abnormalities in the ovaries and surrounding areas.
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CA-125 Blood Tests: This blood test measures a protein that may be elevated in ovarian cancer, though it’s not specific enough to be a standalone test.