The Hereditary Cancer Program, Division of Human Genetics

Questions and Answers About Genetic Testing and Counseling

There have been several stories in the media lately about genetic counseling and testing for hereditary cancer. Many of the news stories have concerned an advertising campaign about tests available for the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes.

All of us at the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Hereditary Cancer Program are committed to helping patients gain a full understanding of their unique cancer risk. We strongly believe that the best starting point is a frank discussion between patients and their physicians. For people who have risk factors for hereditary cancers, genetic counseling can be extremely helpful in determining risk, and even more importantly, in managing risk, based on nationally-recognized standards. Genetic testing, however, is not recommended for everyone.

We have assembled a compilation of statements and resources to help people understand this issue. We hope you find this helpful!

• 5 Facts About Genetics and Cancer
  The Dallas Morning News
  October 2, 2007
  
• Statement on Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing
  American College of Medical Genetics
  September 24, 2007
  
• A Genetic Test That Very Few Need, Marketed to the Masses
  The New York Times
  September 11, 2007
  
• UConn Cancer Experts Answer Questions About Genetic Counseling and Testing
  UConn Health Center News Release
  September 18, 2007
  
• Breast Cancer and Genetic Testing Resource
  Connecticut Department of Public Health
  November 2007