Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk

Understanding Your Genetic Cancer Risk

Understanding your hereditary cancer risk can be a vital part of prevention and early detection. At Exeter Hospital’s Center for Cancer Care, our certified genetic counselors provide expert, personalized guidance to help you and your family understand your cancer risk and make informed decisions about screening, prevention and overall health.

What Is Genetic Testing and Counseling?

Genetic counseling is a collaborative process in which specialists review your personal health history and family cancer history to evaluate the likelihood that an inherited genetic change could increase your risk for certain cancers. Based on this evaluation, your counselor will help you decide whether genetic testing is appropriate and what the results might mean for you and your loved ones.

Why Consider Genetic Counseling?

Certain cancers are more likely to have an inherited component. A genetic counseling session may be recommended if you or a close family member have:

• Multiple family members affected by cancer
• A cancer diagnosis at an unusually young age
• Certain types of cancer that are more commonly linked to hereditary syndromes
• A known genetic mutation in the family
• Questions about the best screening or prevention strategies for you

By understanding your genetic risk, you can take proactive steps toward early detection and personalized care planning. 

Our Genetic Counseling and Testing Services

Our genetic counseling and testing services are designed to be thorough, personalized, and supportive:

One-on-One Consultations

Our certified genetic counselors review your personal and family cancer history, assess your risk, and answer all your questions with clarity and compassion. 

Tailored Genetic Testing Options

Testing is done using a simple blood or saliva sample. Depending on your situation, we may recommend testing for specific genes or a broader genetic panel to better understand your risk.

Interpretation of Results

Your counselor will explain what your results mean for your health and your family’s health. This includes whether an inherited genetic change was identified and implications for cancer risk management. 

Personalized Prevention and Screening Guidance

If a genetic risk is identified, we provide guidance on next steps, which may include enhanced screening, referrals to specialists, lifestyle recommendations, and discussions about preventive options. 

Insurance and Financial Support Information

We help you understand insurance coverage for genetic counseling and testing and provide information about financial assistance when available. 

Emotional Support and Resources

Genetic risk assessment can raise emotional and family concerns. Our team offers support and connects you with resources to help you and your family navigate the process. 

How Genetic Information Can Help

Knowing your genetic risk can:

• Inform your personalized cancer screening schedule
• Identify risks for family members who might benefit from early screening
• Help guide preventive health decisions
• Support informed discussions with your healthcare providers

At Exeter Hospital, our cancer specialists collaborate with the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program to develop personalized care and risk-management plans for individuals with an increased risk of cancer.

Schedule an Appointment

To learn more about genetic counseling and testing or to schedule an appointment at Exeter Hospital, please call 603-580-7336.