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Genetic Counseling

Genetic Counselors in New Jersey

At Mountainside Medical Center, we encourage you to stay informed about your risk of developing cancer by scheduling a genetic counseling test. While environmental and lifestyle variables have been linked to the incidence of some types of cancer, heredity also plays a role in determining who is most susceptible to certain forms. Along with screening enhancements that are leading to earlier detection of cancer, there have been advances in the science of determining who may be at heightened genetic risk. For those with signs of a predisposition for specific types of cancer, our physicians provide convenient access to supportive, compassionate hereditary disease counseling, state-of-the-art testing and all of the information you need to make informed medical care decisions.

Who Should Seek Genetic Risk Counseling?

Patients are typically referred for genetic counseling by a primary care physician or a specialist based upon their individual medical history and/or family history. An in-depth hereditary cancer risk assessment is usually recommended for those with a personal family history of the following:

  • Bilateral cancer
  • Breast or ovarian cancer with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
  • Cancer diagnosed before age 50 (particularly breast, ovary, and colon cancer)
  • Constellations associated with hereditary cancer syndromes
  • Known family history of genetic mutation
  • Male breast cancer

Every aspect of genetic counseling and testing is elective and confidential. If you proceed with counseling, you are not obligated to undergo genetic testing. All information that you provide, as well as results of any tests and analyses, is securely shared only with select medical professionals involved in your care. If you choose to move forward with your genetic risk assessment and need supplemental coping support, we will provide a referral to a qualified social worker or therapist.

What to Expect From a Genetic Counseling Session

At an initial genetic counseling session an experienced, a certified physician will gather information about your medical history and several generations of your family history. The physician will then explain the latest advances in cancer genetics in clear, understandable terms and review both the benefits and limitations of genetic testing. Our team is prepared to answer any questions you may have, and will order the correct genetic test for your particular needs.

You can consent immediately at your DNA testing consultation for a test, or take some time for consideration and schedule a test at a future date. If or when you decide to move forward, please remember:

  • Painless, non-invasive diagnostic testing can be completed at Mountainside Medical Center.
  • When test results become available, a follow-up meeting with your genetic counselor will be scheduled to review and interpret them.
  • Based upon your results, you may be referred for a consultation with a physician specialist who is board-certified in the study and treatment of the specific type of cancer involved in your case. The specialist will explain preventive and early intervention options.

To arrange a genetic counseling appointment, or to learn more about our hereditary cancer assessment program, please call us.