title: Cancer genetic counseling: when to refer for cancer risk assessment and genetic testing.
abstract: Identifying hereditary cancer risk saves lives through individualized surveillance and prevention efforts. Advances in testing technologies and genetic knowledge are providing us with new tools for identifying individuals and families who are at highest risk for cancer. This article reviews our current genetic testing abilities, describes the role of genetic counselors, and offers guidance and resources for physicians as they determine who ought to be referred for genetic cancer risk assessment and testing.
authors.affiliation: North Memorial's Humphrey Cancer Center, USA.
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Kunz
authors.forename: Denise
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Marty
authors.forename: Katherine
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Baker-Lange
mesh_terms: D002173:Cancer Care Facilities; D055088:Early Detection of Cancer; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008910:Minnesota; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D011320:Primary Health Care; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D018570:Risk Assessment; D013038:Specialization