What if my genetic testing is negative or I choose not to undergo genetic testing?
Hereditary predisposition testing is not the only mechanism for calculating risk. Individuals who undergo genetic testing and are negative for a mutation or those who choose to forgo genetic testing based upon a low probability of finding a hereditary component to disease may still be at increased risk. Risk counselors can employ other methods to determine risk based upon empirical models or epidemiologic studies as a way of enhancing screening recommendations and providing optimal cancer care. Risk information should be presented in a quantitative fashion within the context of a time frame (i.e. a risk of 1.5% over five years and 15% to the age of 90). This will enable the individual to better understand the impact of screening recommendations.

 

What if my genetic testing finds a variant of uncertain significance (VUS)?
The majority of abnormalities that are identified as variants of uncertain significance are of limited clinical consequence and not associated with an increased risk of cancer. Your cancer risk counselor may use empiric evidence to determine whether the specific change found is more likely to be harmful or not.

 

What if my genetic testing is positive for a mutation that is known to increase the risk of cancer?
A positive test indicates the presence of a mutation that is known to increase the risk of cancer. Armed with this knowledge, you may choose among various options to decrease your risk of cancer.