Cancer Risk Evaluation Program
Penn's nationally recognized Cancer Risk Evaluation Program is specifically designed for women who want more information about their personal risk for breast and ovarian cancer. As one of the first breast and ovarian counseling programs in the country, Penn's program provides education and counseling about the benefits and limitations of genetic testing to help you make decisions about your care that are right for you.
One method of prevention is to understand cancer genetics. Research shows that a small percentage of women inherit a more significant risk of developing ovarian and breast cancers. These genetic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can be carried by both men and women and can be passed on by one or both parents. Only about 5 to 10 percent of breast and ovarian cancers are due to the BRCA mutation. The risks of colon, prostate, melanoma and pancreatic cancers can also be increased due to the mutation.
Families with an increased risk of having BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations have: |
- Several relatives with breast cancer, with some women diagnosed before the age of 50
- Relatives diagnosed with more than one primary breast cancer
- Ovarian cancer in one or more women
- Both breast and ovarian cancer diagnosed in the same woman
- A man with breast cancer
- Ashkenazi Jewish (Eastern/Central European) or African American heritage
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What to expect
Prior to your initial visit to Penn's Cancer Risk Evaluation Program, family history and risk questionnaires are sent to you. You need to complete these forms so the risk evaluation team can learn important information about you and arrange visits tailored to your personal situation.
During your first visit, you meet with a genetic counselor or a genetic oncology nurse who asks you additional questions. You learn more about the significance of risk factors, and find out more about the role that genes, inheritance and genetic testing, as they relate to your family history, play in risk evaluation.
After your first visit, your information is reviewed by a multidisciplinary case conference of Penn experts from oncology and genetics. This group assesses your risk, develops recommendations for follow-up care and determines your eligibility for further participation in research.
During your second visit, you meet with a medical oncologist and a genetic oncology nurse or genetics counselor and learn the results of your cancer risk assessment. There is plenty of time for you to discuss the results and ask questions. If you decide on genetic testing, blood may be drawn at this visit. Also during this visit, the nurse or counselor discusses a plan to carefully monitor your health, based on your level of risk.
The University of Pennsylvania's Cancer Risk Evaluation Program is offered at three locations:
The program also provides information for people who have been diagnosed with cancer and want to learn more about the role of genetics in their diagnosis.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 800-789-PENN (7366) or visit Penn Cancer Services.
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