Washington Cancer Genetics Program
An affiliate of UCSF Medical Center
Are you concerned about a strong family history of breast and ovarian cancer?
Private consultations for genetic counseling and risk assessment are available
with a physician referral.
What cancers can we genetically screen?
We can genetically test for a predisposition to a wide range of cancers.
To determine if you are in a group for which genetic testing is recommended,
please visit our website at whhs.com/cancergenetics.
Some of the cancers for which we perform genetic tests include:
• Breast and ovarian cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer
• Endocrine cancer
• Sarcoma
• Adrenal cancer
• Early-age (under 50) brain cancer
• Medullary thyroid cancer
• Paraganglioma or pheochromocytoma
How can I find out more about genetic counseling and genetic testing?
We offer an information class which includes the following topics:
• Am I a candidate for genetic testing? Understanding your risk
• What genetic testing will tell you and implications for your family
• The role of the genetic counselor and medical oncologist
• The role of obtaining a three-generation family history
• Program costs and insurance authorization
Risk Assessment
If you decide to participate in our program, a comprehensive risk assessment
will be completed. This includes obtaining a complete personal and family
medical history for an assessment of cancer risk and possible predisposition
for carrying a cancer gene.
Genetic Counseling
As part of the program you will meet with our specially trained genetic
counselors that will provide the following:
• Education regarding genetic susceptibility, risk assessment and
genetic testing
• Non-directive assistance with decision making
• Support in identifying and coping with the psychological and social
concerns related to an increased cancer risk • Discussion of the
familial implications of hereditary cancers
Genetic Testing and Results
If genetic testing is pursued, you will discuss the results and recommended
risk management strategies with a trained genetics counselor. Additionally,
your primary physician will receive a consultation report which includes
your results and the options that were discussed. Finally, genetic risks
for other family members can be discussed and participation in research
studies may be offered.
Risk Reduction
The medical oncologist will work with you and your primary physician to
recommend tailored risk management strategies, preventive measures, screening
tests, and procedures. Options may include increased surveillance, medications,
or surgery. If appropriate, participation in research protocols and clinical
trials will be offered.
Research
The Washington Cancer Genetics Program is a collaboration between UCSF
Medical Center and Washington Hospital Healthcare System. This relationship
allows us to offer our community the latest research protocols while exploring
the molecular and genetic basis of cancer susceptibility, new methods
for early detection and prevention of cancer, and determining cancer risk
in different ethnic groups. The Program offers genetic counseling for
individuals concerned with the risk of an inherited cancer predisposition.
The clinic's staff includes genetic counselors, medical oncologists,
and registered nurses.
Washington Cancer Genetics Program
Washington Women’s and Imaging Center
2500 Mowry Avenue, Suite 150
Fremont, CA 94538
For more information call the Washington Women’s Center Coordinator
at (510) 818-7356
Free parking and adjacent to Fremont BART Costs for genetic counseling
and testing will vary with the complexity of the case. Check your insurance
policy guidelines for coverage.