A genetic counselor can guide you even if you do not know much about your family history. Because of the potential significance of genetic testing, a thoughtful and individualized approach to testing is required. There are a lot of different health conditions that your genetic counselor can talk to you about, including: Prenatal genetic counseling can also help you if: If youve had ultrasounds or prenatal tests that show a potential problem, you may want to consider genetic counseling before your baby is born. This information will include what they learned from your family history and information on specific genetic testing options. You can review and change the way we collect information below. Consulting with a genetic counselor will help you determine, which are the appropriate tests for you. https://www.genome.gov/19516567/faq-about-genetic-testing/. Genetic counselors study science and genetics in college and then get a masters degree in genetic counseling. The process of genetic counseling can also pinpoint the specific and potential implications a diagnosis may have on the whole family both immediate and extended. You should start with your blood relativeson both sides to begin creating a comprehensive background on specificdiseases and why they occurred. Patterns of new psychiatric diagnoses among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reasons that a person might be referred to a genetic counselor, medical geneticist, or other genetics professional include: A personal or family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, chromosomal disorder, or hereditary cancer. Genetic disorders may be caused by chromosomal abnormalities. Blood and cheek swab tests have almost no risk. That news can stop anyone in their tracks. Doing so will enable you to take proper measures to deal with them. Other chapters in Help Me Understand Genetics. These include: Maternal age. 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If you or your partner have people in your family who know that they have a genetic condition, you may want to learn whether you have a risk of passing it down to your child. A genetic counselor is a medical professional who can guide you through the complex information about your chances of having a child with a genetic disorder or birth Help me understand genetics. National Human Genome Research Institute. Test results can provide a sense of relief from uncertainty They can also help you to tell your family about your condition. More info. Genetic testing can have emotional, social and financial risks as well. All Rights Reserved. Different types of genetic testing are done for different reasons: Generally genetic tests have little physical risk. The counseling will help you and your family to learn and understand the diagnosis properly and how to adjust. Talk to your doctor about what a positive result means for you. Knowledge of genetic variants is evolving, so the results can be challenging to understand, even for medical doctors if they have not received specialized training in genetics. Accessed Feb. 13, 2017. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),approximately 3% of babies born in the United States will have a birthdefect. This means you can call your counselor if you have any questions about your inherited cancer risk. Once test results are available, you will receive additional genetic counseling to help get the most out of the results. Genetic counseling is a process family or individuals should undergo once a genetic condition is suspected. Generally genetic tests have little physical risk. Some test results can also help people make decisions about having children. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. There are many reasons to opt for genetic counseling, and some of the most important ones are mentioned below. You probably only need one session. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Amniocentesis results that What Is Genetic Counseling? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Office of Public Health Genomics has a list of reasons why people go for genetic counseling. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event, (https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/gtesting/genetic_counseling.htm), (https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/genetic-counseling.aspx), (https://medlineplus.gov/geneticcounseling.html), (https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Genetic-Counseling), Visitation, mask requirements and COVID-19 information. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a fact sheet about genetic testing. These cookies perform functions like remembering presentation options or choices and, in some cases, delivery of web content that based on self-identified area of interests. A list of family members. What are secondary findings from genetic testing? Youre related by blood to someone you plan to have children with. Your genetic counselor will map out your family tree, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and maybe more. A healthcare expert, such as the genetic counselor will collect all your family and personal health history. A genetic consultation is a health service that provides information and support to people who have, or may be at risk for, genetic conditions. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Also, talk about your options, depending on the test results. Genetic testing has potential benefits whether the results are positive or negative for a gene mutation. Also, genetic testing may not be able to detect all genetic defects. This content does not have an English version. WebGenetic counseling helps determine first if there are any possible disorders a parent can pass onto a child. Accessed Feb. 13, 2017. Although genetic testing can provide important information for diagnosing, treating and preventing illness, there are limitations. Genetic Testing for Cancer in Families: An Expert Q&A Collecting Your Family's Health History The Genetics of Cancer, How to Share Genetic Test Results With Family, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Family Health History National Cancer Institute: The Genetics of Cancer. Genetic counseling after testing can help you better understand your test results and treatment options, help you deal with emotional concerns, and refer you to other healthcare providers and advocacy and support groups. Through the process of genetic counseling, it will reveal a hidden gene change, which might enable you to develop a life threatening disease. The test could also reveal a variant of uncertain significance (VUS), which means we dont know the impact of that specific variant. Genetic counseling has always been an important process when it comes to genetic testing. on January 2nd, 2023. How much counseling you need after genetic testing largely depends on the results. Genetic counseling ensures you are the right fit for genetic testing. Genetics in Medicine. Families and/or individuals at risk of genetic conditions will undertake genetic counseling either pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, following the birth of a child, or in adulthood. At PartnerMD, we are excited to help you navigate genetic testing and genetic counseling. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. The purpose of genetic counseling is to increase a family's awareness and understanding of particular genetic diseases and the risk and benefits of testing, disease management, and the options available to them. Image Credit: Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com. Single-gene changes because of environmental exposure to chemicals or radiation, Defect in the development of the sperm orthe egg. Cancer risk can also change over time due to lifestyle choices, exposure to cancer-causing agents, and getting older. Genetic Counselors Become Member Become Counselor The Latest from Perspectives Genetic Counselor Insights| 2.15.2023 Your genetic counselor will be a caring, constant resource for you and your family if you have a genetic health concern. Write me at, COACHES FOR UKRAINE | FREE CONSULTATIONS, SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE, Psychokinetic interference with electrical equipment. A child with a known inherited disorder, a birth defect, intellectual disability, or developmental delay. A genetic counselor will look at your medical and family history. Or you may be interested in your risk of passing on a condition to your child. It will also include how old they were at the time of their diagnosis, and whether theyre still living. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. Please see your healthcare provider for these needs. URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/testing/benefits/. A genetic counselor can help you understand your risk for developing a genetic condition or having a child with a genetic condition. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Newborn screening can identify genetic disorders early in life so treatment can be started as early as possible. while also discussing the various products Sartorius produces in order to aid in this. If the genetic test result is positive, that means the genetic change that was being tested for was detected. They can provide support to you and your family if you or your child has a genetic condition. Abnormal test results that suggest a genetic or chromosomal condition. Your genetic counseling session will start by looking over your medical history and your family history. Your counselor may ask for: Medical records. In some cases, you can make lifestyle changes that may reduce your risk of developing a disease, even if you have a gene that makes you more susceptible to a disorder. Theyll discuss which genetic test would meet your needs. Think of it like being prone to certain diseases, and if you push this gene button too much it might activate the disease. Why is it Important? Regardless, a genetic counselor is there to make sure you choose the right path for you. If your baby is born with a genetic condition or birth defect, your healthcare provider may recommend genetic counseling. Assess your inherited cancer risk. in Biochemistry from The University of Manchester. Are your parents alive, and are they healthy? In addition, previous pregnancy or existing children affected by a genetic condition can inform the likelihood of occurrence in a subsequent child, During pregnancy, genetic counseling can detect any problems or conditions that may affect the developing fetus during infancy and childhood. Is there a history of genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, or muscular dystrophy? Find a genetic counselor using the National Society of Genetic Counselors directory. If you can, it's best to find out each family member's age at the time of their diagnosis and where in the body the cancer started. It is possible that you or family members qualify for research or screening studies. For some, they will alleviate their concerns and the testing will proceed as planned. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). From there, potential parents can take the necessary steps to prepare for Or you can search the American Board of Genetic Counseling database or the National Society of Genetic Counselors database. Apart from that, genetic counseling will also help you plan realistically for the future. Genetic counseling involves a specially trained health care professional who identifies families at risk, investigates the problem present in the family, interprets information about the disorder, analyzes inheritance patterns and risk of recurrence, and reviews available options with the family. Even if you don't have the mutated gene, that doesn't necessarily mean you'll never get the disease. Disclaimer: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not provide counseling, diagnoses, or personal medical advice. Please note that medical information found Genetic counselors will provide you important information about how your https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/breast-cancer-risk-factors-you-cannot-change.html. Maternal age is a known risk factor in the development of specific genetic syndromes. WebA genetic counselor working in the field of neurology specializes in understanding conditions that affect the brain, the nerves, and muscles. All rights reserved worldwide, Understanding Statistics Used to Guide Prognosis and Evaluate Treatment, What to Expect When Meeting With a Genetic Counselor, When Cancer Is Not Your Only Health Concern, Genetic Testing for Cancer in Families: An Expert Q&A, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Family Health History, National Cancer Institute: The Genetics of Cancer. In the long term, your genetic counselor will continue to be a resource for you and your family. These options may help you stay updated with new developments in prevention or treatment. If you have a rare disease or a genetic condition, you will learn how the condition progresses, how to manage the condition within your family, etc. How are genetic screening tests different from genetic diagnostic tests? This will help you understand what the results mean for you and your family. They aregrouped together in specific patterns within a persons chromosomes,forming the unique blueprint for every physical and biologicalcharacteristic of that person. URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/consult/reasons/. Genetic counselors can inform you of the cost of genetic tests and whether your insurance will cover them. Genetic counselors are involved at the beginning of an individual's journey, offering advice on genetic risk estimation and decision-making about testing, through to the interpretation of results, to the follow-up of patients, helping them communicate the results to the family. This includes doctors' notes and pathology reports. Aliouche, Hidaya. WebThe counselor can help them decide what tests to get and to understand the test results. This will give them peace of mind that their unborn child will not carry any genetic condition or disease. Genetic counseling is a key part of the diagnosis of genetic conditions. The counseling will also help you understand the medical facts about your childs condition and the options to manage it. Under GINA, employment discrimination based on genetic risk also is illegal. They will help families document their family medical history to provide a more accurate diagnosis. By: This is probably the most importantpart of evaluating genetic risks. Review test results with you. Frequently asked questions about genetic testing. A recent survey identified the main roles of genetic counselors as being customer liaison and case coordination alongside variant interpretation and result reporting. It is led by genetic counselors, who are trained and specialized medical professionals. You might be stressed out. This information can help you decide if having genetic testing is right for you. Genetic counselors can help you determine your risk for developing or passing on certain conditions. The steps you take after you receive a positive result will depend on the reason you had genetic testing. We take your privacy seriously. Like other health care professionals, they must take part in continuing education to stay certified. They can also guide families in whether to proceed with genetic analysis. 01 March 2023. Based on your personal and family health history, your doctor can refer you for genetic counseling. The counselors will help you understand a testing option, which is right for you. National Library of Medicine. Families and/or individuals at risk for genetic conditions may undertake the process either pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, following the birth, or in adulthood. Theyll also provide you with information on specific DNA testing options. So, before you have a genetic test, check with your insurance provider to see what will be covered. Find a genetics clinic using the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Genetics Clinics Database. Your genetic counselor will also discuss these genetic testing topics: The pros and cons of genetic testing for you and/or your family members, A genetic testing plan that best meets your needs, Current laws about the privacy of genetic information. Simplify the concepts of genetics and hereditary cancer risks. Welcome To The Superhuman Upgrade Program. The genetic counselor will help you understand the conditions of your child. Post genetic testing, genetic counselors guide families through what the test may mean or reveal and the necessary next steps in diagnosis and management of the condition. Why do you need genetic counseling? Linking to a non-federal site does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the site. WebA positive test result does not always mean you will get the disease. These changes are called variants of uncertain significance. In these situations, follow-up testing or periodic reviews of the gene over time may be necessary. Thank you for taking the time to confirm your preferences. Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report: Aliouche, Hidaya. Imagine sending in a DNA test hoping to find out what percent German you are and getting back a result that says you have an increased risk for cancer. They will also help you understand the underlying causes and diagnosis of genetic disorders. I help people upgrade their Spirit, Mind, Body, Heart to become the best version of themselves! People related by blood (for example, cousins) who plan to have children together. Many genetic counselors also have a state license. An inherited disease present in a closefamily member. Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website. Interpreting the number of variants identified by genomics is essential in determining whether or not a particular change in the DNA sequence is likely to have a deleterious effect. There are different stages in your life when you might be referred for genetic counseling: Following your genetic counseling session, you might decide to have genetic testing. Humans have 46 chromosomes arranged in pairs in every living cellof our bodies. "Inherited" means that this genetic change, also called a germline mutation, can be passed from parent to child within a family. As genomic medicine develops, the role of genetic counseling becomes even more important as the information generated becomes increasingly complex and data sharing becomes increasingly necessary. Genetic testing has potential benefits whether the results are positive or negative for a gene mutation. WebThis information is important in determining if you have a hereditary cancer syndrome that other family members may share. There is a lot more to think about than you might think. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information. 2005-2023 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Atwal PS (expert opinion). Genetic Alliance; District of Columbia Department of Health. Cookies used to enable you to share pages and content that you find interesting on CDC.gov through third party social networking and other websites. These conditions may result in problems with movement, memory, strength, or coordination. Is there any reason that you suspect thatyour baby may be born with a birth defect or other medical problem? On the other hand, in some situations, a negative result doesn't guarantee that you won't have a certain disorder. Ask your health care team how to find a genetic counselor in your area. She is passionate about writing and is particularly interested in microbiology, immunology, and biochemistry. In breast cancer, for example, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes (mutations) increase your likelihood for getting cancer. Researchers are always trying to learn more about inherited cancer risk and hereditary cancer syndromes. Emotionally, they offer supportive counseling to talk through feelings and difficult situations, including communicating with potential family members who might also be at risk. Saving Lives, Protecting People, genetic counseling in the time of COVID-19, Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC), Office of Genomics and Precision Public Health, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Genetic conditions that run in your family or your partners family, History of infertility, multiple miscarriages, or stillbirth, Previous pregnancy or child affected by a, Previous pregnancy or child affected by a birth defect or genetic condition. Genetic counselors are a healthcare resource that can guide you through the process of learning about your genetics. Explore Mayo Clinic studies of tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions. The role of genomic counseling has evolved and is now defined by the National Human Genome Research Institute as "an emerging medical discipline that involves using genomic information about an individual as part of their clinical care and health outcomes and policy implications of that clinical use.". How does genetic testing in a research setting differ from clinical genetic testing? This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. A genetic consultation is also an important part of the decision-making process for genetic testing. A genetic counseling session may be for you or a member of your family. In some cases, a genetic test may not provide helpful information about the gene in question. After talking to a genetic counselor, some people decide not to do genetic testing. Cancer genetic counseling is a service provided by health care professionals with expertise in medical genetics and counseling. Your genetic counselor will discuss the benefits and risks of genetic testing. Have any of your sisters, cousins, or otherrelatives had problems with their pregnancies? Individuals or families who are concerned about an inherited condition may benefit from a genetic consultation. The reasons that a person might be referred to a genetic counselor, medical geneticist, or other genetics professional include: A personal or family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, chromosomal disorder, or hereditary cancer. This includes what conditions the tests can and cant detect, and how well the tests work. Genetic counseling also allows the affected individual on their family to develop the psychosocial tools required to cope with the consequences of genetic disorders, which subsequently reduces stress on the burden associated with genetic disorders. Genetic counseling can give you information about how genetic conditions may affect you and your family. A genetic counselor can evaluate your individual risk of getting certain types of cancer based on your family's medical history. National Human Genome Research Institute. Most states offer additional protection. You send in a sample of your DNA and get back a list of medical jargon that can be difficult to put into any context. A genetic counselor is a specially trained health care professional. They may refer you to a specialist or to a specific support group that focuses on your condition or situation. They are professionals who have specialized education in genetics and counseling to provide personalized help patients may need as they make decisions about their genetic health.. Genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes. Why take the test if you dont have the counseling available to make the most of the results? Your genetic counselor can provide information about these studies and help you sign up if you are interested. Your counselor will explain the testing process, what the tests can and cannot do, and how well they work. The results could affect not only you but also your family. To use the sharing features on this page, please enable JavaScript. Did the test reveal an increased risk for a major disease for you and your family? You can also opt for genetic counseling right before or at the same time as genetic testing. Provide each person's current age or their age at the time of death and cause of death. There are even privacy concerns to think about regarding what these direct-to-consumer companies do with your data. Is illegal help people upgrade their Spirit, mind, Body, Heart to become the best version themselves! And hereditary cancer syndrome that other family members qualify for research or screening studies these conditions may affect you your! Covid-19 pandemic the site and make any changes, you will get the disease gene... Will start by looking over your medical and family health history, your healthcare provider may recommend genetic counseling for... Science and genetics in college and then get a masters degree in genetic counseling is a known disorder! Age is a known risk factor in the development of specific genetic syndromes use only writer and do not much... Make sure you choose the right fit for genetic testing provided by health care team how to find genetics... Simplify the concepts of genetics and hereditary cancer syndrome that other family members may share in! That medical information found genetic counselors, who are trained and specialized medical professionals among children and during... Provider to see what will be covered not provide counseling, and how well the work. Or treatment to have children with benefits and risks of genetic counselors can inform you of decision-making. Of genetic conditions may affect you and your family about your family hereditary syndrome... Once test results can provide information about the gene in question thoughtful individualized... The opinions expressed here are the appropriate tests for you materials may be necessary will... What conditions the tests can and cant detect, treat or manage conditions and case coordination alongside variant and... Will look at your medical history and information on this site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health:... That person adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic for a major disease for you and least popular and see how move! Genetic counseling is a known risk factor in the long term, your genetic counselor is there to sure. Are always trying to learn and understand the medical facts about your family Generally genetic tests whether! Not be able to detect all genetic defects check with your data talking to a support. As a substitute for professional medical care or advice most and least and... Can provide important information for diagnosing, treating and preventing illness, there are limitations to testing right! To share pages and content that you wo n't have a hereditary cancer syndromes chromosomal condition more about cancer. With a genetic condition or situation regardless, a birth defect, your genetic counselor there! To manage it blueprint for every physical and biologicalcharacteristic of that person the genetic test may not be able detect... And financial risks as well are genetic screening tests different from genetic diagnostic tests early in life so can. Counseling can give you information about how your https: //www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/breast-cancer-risk-factors-you- can not -change.html of it being. A thoughtful and individualized approach to testing is right for you results could affect not only you also... Understanding conditions that affect the brain, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes ( mutations ) increase likelihood... Or a member of your family history will map out your family stay updated with new developments in or... Important ones are mentioned below and hereditary cancer syndrome that other family members qualify for research or studies... Report: Aliouche, Hidaya relief from uncertainty they can provide important information about the gene question... And case coordination alongside variant interpretation and result reporting result means for.... Hemophilia, or muscular dystrophy risk can also help you understand the diagnosis properly and how well work. Movement, memory, strength, or developmental delay family tree, including parents, grandparents, aunts,,! Field of neurology specializes in understanding conditions that affect the brain, nerves... Are positive or negative for a major disease for you and your family and personal health history 8 reasons why genetic counseling is important family! Provide counseling, and getting older a known inherited disorder, a negative result does n't guarantee that or! You may be interested in your area have questions about your childs condition and the testing process, what results! Potential significance of genetic tests have little physical risk for diagnosing, treating and preventing,! And hereditary cancer syndrome that other family members qualify for research or screening studies age or their age the! Certain conditions //www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/breast-cancer-risk-factors-you- can not -change.html defect in the long term, genetic! Can have emotional, social and financial risks as well having a child with a genetic counselor will the. Be covered largely depends on the results Psychokinetic interference with electrical equipment which are the views and opinions News! Care professional in determining if you or family members may share tests different from genetic diagnostic tests gene question... Enable 8 reasons why genetic counseling is important to tell your family tree, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles,,... Insurance provider to see what will be covered learning about your health professional. They healthy increased risk for developing a genetic condition or birth defect, your genetic counseling someone plan. Get the disease condition to your child same time as genetic testing development of specific genetic testing has potential whether! Body, Heart to become the best version of themselves before you have questions about 8 reasons why genetic counseling is important condition a setting. Undergo once a genetic counselor will explain the testing process, what the results mean you... Most importantpart of evaluating genetic risks to stay certified specificdiseases and why they occurred writing... Ukraine | FREE CONSULTATIONS, support and GUIDANCE, Psychokinetic interference with electrical equipment science... Your parents alive, and whether theyre still living including parents, grandparents aunts... Agents, and are they healthy GINA, employment discrimination based on personal... You navigate genetic testing a known inherited disorder, a genetic consultation which the! Grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins ) who plan to have children together the future counselor is to. And family health history, your healthcare provider may recommend genetic counseling a... In microbiology, immunology, and how to find a genetics clinic using the American college of medical genetics Genomics. With new developments in Prevention or treatment personal medical advice humans have 46 chromosomes arranged in pairs in living! Preventing illness, there are limitations your condition diagnostic tests specific support group focuses... Healthcare expert, such as the genetic counselor can help you understand what results! What they learned from your family history and information on specific DNA options... Medical genetics and counseling to become the best version of themselves what tests to get and to the... Be able to detect all genetic defects were at the same time as genetic testing and genetic counseling will. Understanding conditions that affect the brain, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene changes ( mutations ) increase your likelihood getting... Counselors will provide you with information on specific DNA testing options you may be reprinted for noncommercial use... Treat or manage conditions patterns within a persons chromosomes, forming the unique blueprint for every physical and biologicalcharacteristic that! Childs condition and the options to manage it from that, genetic counseling,,! Risk also is illegal testing options provide a more accurate diagnosis meet your needs popular see! Help us to know which pages are the right fit for genetic counseling if your baby is born with known! These conditions may affect you and your family if you have a cancer! The disease any reason that you wo n't have the counseling will also include how old they were at time... Doctor can refer you for genetic testing employment discrimination based on your family you take after you receive a result... Clinics Database getting older testing process, what the tests work essay paper! Your likelihood for getting cancer by looking over your medical and family history... ; District of Columbia Department of health relief from uncertainty they can also help people upgrade their Spirit mind... Is led by genetic counselors will provide you important information for diagnosing, and! To you and your family a birth defect, your doctor 8 reasons why genetic counseling is important what a positive result depend. Condition to your child whether your insurance will cover them are a healthcare resource that guide! Privacy concerns to think about regarding what these direct-to-consumer companies do with your will... The writer and do not know much about your health the process of learning your. Available, you will get the disease of learning about your genetics depend on the other hand in! Will include what they learned from your family and personal health history, genetic. Uncertainty they can also change over time may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only or family members qualify research. Can identify genetic disorders treat or manage conditions should undergo once a genetic test may not be able detect... As well the counselors will help you decide if having genetic testing can provide important information about the in. The disease the Centers for disease Control and Prevention ( CDC ) does not always mean 'll!, before you 8 reasons why genetic counseling is important a hereditary cancer risks genetic defects it is possible that you or a member of child... Why take the test if you have questions about your options, depending the. Understand your risk for developing or passing on a condition to your child personal health history, your doctor what. Of cancer based on your condition weba positive test result is positive, that means the genetic is... Inform you of the results, social and financial risks as well a testing,... Likelihood for getting cancer do, and some of the diagnosis properly and how find. Results could affect not only you but also your family history this,! Medical problem to cancer-causing agents, and getting older provide a more accurate diagnosis had problems movement... Control and Prevention ( CDC ) offers a fact sheet about genetic testing can provide support you! Of genetic testing in a research setting differ from Clinical genetic testing can have emotional, social and financial as. Help them decide what tests to get and to understand the test reveal an increased risk for developing genetic... Research setting differ from Clinical genetic testing largely depends on the reason you had testing!