Genetic Testing 101

When people are diagnosed with cancer, the question of genetic testing often arises. There are good reasons for testing, but when patients are undecided, genetic counselors can help them determine if genetic testing is right for them.

The benefits

If a person has a gene mutation, certain chemotherapies may work better by targeting the mutation, says Mary Nyhuis, MS, certified genetic counselor in the Cancer Genetics Program. If a gene mutation is found, family members will be encouraged to make lifestyle changes involving diet, exercise and tobacco use. These efforts may reduce their risk for cancers of the breast, colon or ovaries. And they’ll be advised to receive routine cancer screenings to find any early stage cancer.

If two or more family members have the same type of cancer, but the cancer is not caused by genes, people will be advised to alter lifestyle factors and environmental factors – exposure to ultraviolet light, radon gas or chemicals in their surroundings.

The candidates

Mary says to consider having a genetic test of the blood or saliva if:

• Multiple generations have the same type of cancer
• Cancer was diagnosed under the age of 50
• A rare cancer was diagnosed

The cost

One of the most common questions Mary hears is, ‘Will my insurance cover this?’

“After a patient provides their personal and family medical history, we determine if they meet their insurance criteria for testing,” Mary says. “If they don’t qualify, we calculate the estimated out-of-pocket cost, which may be several hundred dollars. In some cases, financial assistance may be available. In other cases, the cost is worth the valuable information.”

What is genetic testing?

Genetic tests involve looking for cancer-causing alterations in a person’s DNA – the molecule that directs cell growth and survival. Tumor tissue removed during surgery may be studied, or samples of saliva and blood can be analyzed.

Genetic testing can’t predict cancer, but it can assess the risk of additional cancer. For example, breast cancer patients with a particular gene have a higher risk for ovarian cancer and may consider preventive surgery to remove the ovaries.

Henry Ford’s genetic counselors are available to discuss the pros and cons of genetic testing, reminding patients that testing is completely voluntary. Learn more.