Genetic testing is offered when the patient’s personal and/or family history of cancer meets specific criteria. Genetic counselling is an important part of a decision to have genetic testing.
Genetic testing looks for an inherited change (mutation) in a gene that is known to increase the risk for specific types of cancer. It is usually done on a blood or saliva sample. Only about 5-10% of all cancers are linked to an inherited gene mutation.
The first (index) test in a family is usually most informative if offered to someone who has had cancer. Storage of a blood sample may be prudent for a person with uncertain health if s/he might be the best index for genetic testing in a family. For more information on the storage of blood samples, expand the "Urgent storage of a blood sample - when, why and how?" section above.
Most index genetic testing is currently done using a panel of hereditary cancer genes. Information will be provided on which genes are being tested and the possible results.
If a hereditary cancer gene mutation is found, then a specific carrier test is available for family members. A carrier test can look at only the specific gene in the family or also include a panel of hereditary cancer genes.
Hereditary cancer genetic testing is usually offered to people aged 19 years or older. It may also be available to children and adolescents if the results will change their medical care and/or after genetic counselling.