Genetic counseling for hereditary breast and gynecologic cancer syndromes at a community hospital.

Haber KM, Seagle BL, Drew B, Morrill-Cornelius S, Samuelson R, Hostmeyer S, Shahabi S.

Abstract

Genetic screening and testing has been shown to be medically and emotionally beneficial for patients with a personal history or strong family history of breast, ovarian, and/or colorectal cancer. Gynecologic oncologists increasingly utilize genetic screening to modify their care and treatment plans of patients and their offspring based on inherited susceptibility to cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) developed specific criteria that consider the medical, psychosocial, and ethical ramifications of genetic counseling of high-risk individuals. Genetic counseling and screening, along with early intervention, is of benefit to women with family histories suggestive of harboring breast cancer antigen (BRCA) mutations. The Western Connecticut Health Network (WCHN) Hereditary Cancer and Genetic Counseling Program provides a comprehensive cancer risk assessment and offers genetic screening as appropriate. This report describes trends in patient referrals, intake, results of genetic testing, and an expansion of services in a community-based genetic counseling program.