Genetic testing can lead to early interventions and improved survival outcomes
Regional Cancer Care Now Offering In-Office Genetic Testing for Patients with a Personal or Family History of Cancer
Ashley Potter, Regional Cancer Care919-477-0047orKatie Harrell, Regional Cancer Care919-477-0047orClaire Crye, The US Oncology Network281-863-6783
, an affiliate of and a leading provider of comprehensive, state-of-the art cancer treatment in the Triangle area, is pleased to announce the addition of in-office genetic risk assessment to its service offerings. Genetic risk assessment is the latest innovation in genetic testing and provides an individualized analysis that identifies a person’s risk for hereditary cancer syndromes. It is a valuable predictive tool that allows for early interventions and screenings, often reducing the impact of hereditary cancers.
It is estimated that approximately five to ten percent of all cancers are hereditary in nature. Some of the more common forms of cancer linked to genetic mutations are breast, colon, ovarian, pancreatic and prostate cancers. Genetic risk assessment offers the potential to detect these cancers in their early stages or take preventative action prior to the disease occurring, significantly increasing the opportunity for a better outcome.
“Regional Cancer Care is embracing the latest development in cancer risk management by offering our patients a full genetic risk assessment,” said , M.D., oncologist and hematologist with RCC. “We are excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to our patients so they have access to this important testing in a comfortable, personalized environment. Our mission is to provide individualized state-of-the-art care to our patients in a convenient setting, and providing genetic testing is a great enhancement to our treatment model.”
The genetic risk assessment is comprised of a series of one-on-one comprehensive patient interviews conducted by specially trained staff. The initial visit focuses on developing a complete family history, educating the patient on hereditary cancers, and completing the genetic testing. Detection of genetic mutations is done with a process that utilizes a simple blood or sputum test, and results are available approximately two weeks later. Once the results are available, another counseling session is held to discuss the findings, educate the patient about his or her status, and address any concerns.
For patients who test positive for a gene mutation, options are discussed concerning a proactive, individualized care plan. These patients are advised to speak to their physician about such options as chemoprevention, increased surveillance, and preventative surgery to minimize the risk of developing cancer. They are also encouraged to begin cancer screenings at an earlier age than normally recommended for the general population.
“It is important to remember that gene mutations can be passed down from generation to generation, so what affects one patient may also have affected his or her parents, grandparents, siblings, and children,” said Dr. Hathorn. “Knowing genetic risk factors can help a person or his or her entire family better plan for the future, as many interventions can be performed to reduce the likelihood of developing a hereditary cancer.”
Appointments for a genetic risk assessment at Regional Cancer Care are available now by calling 919-477-0047.
At Regional Cancer Care (RCC), we believe patients should not have to sacrifice personal care in order to have access to cutting-edge treatments. Since 1978, the RCC mission has been to provide the latest and with the added benefits of individualized care, compassion and convenience. With training from the top medical programs in the country, our bring the knowledge and expertise typically found in major academic centers to the local community. With convenient locations in , , and NC, Regional Cancer Care provides the state-of-the-art treatments patients need along with the personal care they deserve. For more information, visit
Regional Cancer Care is united in healing with The US Oncology Network, one of the nation’s largest community-based cancer treatment and research networks focused on advancing cancer care in America. As an affiliate of The US Oncology Network, RCC is united with nearly 1,000 physicians and 10,000 cancer professionals nationwide. Regional Cancer Care participates in clinical trials through , which has helped to develop 46 FDA approved cancer therapies. For more information, visit .