The Genetics of Hereditary Cancer

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Precision Testing. Personalized Care.

At Advanced Radiation Centers of New York (ARC), we are proud to offer genetic testing to patients who may benefit from understanding their inherited risk of cancer. Through our Precision GU™ genetic panel, we deliver personalized insights that can empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Why Consider Genetic Testing?

Did you know that many cancers are hereditary? Certain types of cancer are caused by inherited mutations—changes in specific genes that are passed down from parent to child. Genetic testing can help determine whether you or your family members carry one of these mutations.

This knowledge can:

  • Clarify your personal risk
  • Help guide treatment planning
  • Inform your family’s future health decisions

Whether you’re navigating a new cancer diagnosis, have a strong family history of cancer, or simply want peace of mind, genetic testing can be a powerful tool.

Genetic testing can provide answers in the following situations:

  • You have a strong family history of certain cancers
  • You were diagnosed with cancer at a younger-than-average age
  • You are managing a recent or existing diagnosis

A positive result means a mutation was found that may increase your risk for specific cancers. For example, inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 can increase the risk of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer.

If you test positive, there’s a 50% chance that close relatives (parents, children, siblings) may also carry the same mutation. Early identification can guide both preventive care and screening.

A negative result means no known mutations were identified in the genes tested. While this doesn’t eliminate your cancer risk entirely, it can still offer reassurance and help focus attention on other risk factors.

A Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS) means a gene change was found, but current science cannot yet determine whether it affects cancer risk. Your doctor will discuss this result in the context of your personal and family history.

Genetic testing can:

  • Provide an explanation for your family history of cancer
  • Help tailor your treatment and follow-up care
  • Identify additional cancer risks and guide early screening
  • Offer clarity for family members who may benefit from testing

Genetic testing is simple. A blood sample is drawn right in your ARC doctor’s office and processed in our own lab. Your results are reviewed with you by your provider, who may also recommend a consultation with a certified genetic counselor for further guidance.

Genetic testing may be appropriate if you or a close family member have:

  • Cancer diagnosed at an early age (e.g., breast cancer before age 50)
  • A history of ovarian, pancreatic, or aggressive prostate cancer
  • Multiple relatives on the same side of the family with the same or related cancers (breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic, colorectal, uterine, or stomach)
  • Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, which is linked to specific cancer gene mutations
  • A relative with a known genetic mutation associated with increased cancer risk

Genetic testing is covered by most insurance plans. If you prefer not to use insurance, a private-pay option is available. Regardless of how your test is processed, your privacy and confidentiality are strictly protected.

Your Next Step

To find out if you’re a candidate for genetic testing, speak with your ARC provider. Together, you’ll decide whether testing is right for you and how to act on the results to safeguard your health and your family’s future.

???? Contact us to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our Precision GU™ genetic testing program.