Familial Cancer Program (Cancer Risk Assessment)

The Familial Cancer Program at Norris Cotton Cancer Center provides counseling for people who may have an increased risk of cancer because of their personal and/or family history. The issues surrounding inherited risk and genetic testing are complicated. The Familial Cancer Program is staffed by a multidisciplinary team committed to providing the best possible information and assistance to individuals and their families. Our locations include Lebanon and Manchester, NH, and St. Johnsbury, VT.

Should You Consider Genetic Counseling?

• Have several members of your family been affected by cancer?
  
• Has cancer occurred at an unusually young age in your family?
  
• Has someone in your family had multiple cancers?
  
• Are there unusual types of cancer in your family?

If your answer to any of these questions is "yes," you may wish to consider cancer risk assessment counseling. Cancer survivors who are concerned that they have inherited an increased risk of cancer may also benefit from counseling regarding their risk of a second cancer.

Cancer Risk Assessment Counseling

If you are concerned about inherited cancer risks, you may request a counseling session. Your family history will be reviewed, an estimate of your risk will be calculated and explained, and any recommended screening tests or possibilities for prevention will be discussed.

Genetic Testing

In some families a predisposition to cancer does seem to be inherited. In recent years, significant progress has been made in identifying the genes involved in a number of different cancers. As a result, the possibility of genetic testing for some types of familial cancer has become a reality. If you are considering genetic testing, we will discuss that option with you. If you decide to proceed, we will arrange for the appropriate testing and help you understand the results.

Why Are Some Families More Affected By Cancer?

Some people have an increased risk of developing cancer because they inherit certain genes from their parents. Genes are the instructions that help the body function properly. Tumor suppressor genes work to keep cancer from developing. A change in a tumor suppressor gene can interfere with its normal function, and increase the chance of certain cancers. When many members of a family are diagnosed with cancer, especially at young ages, the cause may be an altered tumor suppressor gene that has been inherited. Most cancers, however, are not inherited. Most cancers occur by chance or are caused by exposure to cancer-causing material, such as tobacco smoke. Also, some types of cancer are common. Just because someone in your family has had cancer does not necessarily mean you or another family member will inherit cancer.