News You Can Use A monthly newsletter from the Cancer Learning Center • March 2009 - Issue 44 Genetic Counseling and Testing
The American Cancer Society estimates that about 10 percent of all cancers result from inherited factors that increase the risk of developing the disease. Genetic counseling and testing can be helpful tools for families with a strong history of cancer.
What is genetic counseling?
Genetic counseling can help individuals or families learn more about their risk for cancer. Genetic counselors have extensive training that qualifies them to study family medical histories and recommend appropriate cancer screening and genetic testing for individuals in those families.
Should I get genetic counseling?
Not everyone needs genetic counseling, but individuals and families with inherited cancer risk can benefit from it. Factors that suggest an inherited risk may be present include the following: • More than one close family member (parents, siblings, children) with the same type of cancer • More than one type of cancer in the same family member • A family member who developed cancer at a younger age than average
• A family member with a rare type of cancer What is genetic testing?
Genetic tests can find damage to the DNA that may increase the risk of cancer and identify family members who may be at increased risk. Genetic testing cannot predict whether or not cancer will actually develop. Advice from a genetic counselor, along with information from genetic testing, can provide individuals and families who have a higher risk with special recommendations for cancer prevention and screening.
Linda B. and Robert B. Wiggins Wellness Center
Fitness activities for current and former patients and their families
SLC Marathon, 5K, and and Bike Tour Clinic: Tuesday, March 3, 5:45 - 7 p.m.
Spring Into Fitness: Group Circuit: Yoga: Thursday, March 19, 5:30 p.m.
Cardio Conditioning: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5 – 5:30 p.m.
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30 – 6 p.m.
Tuesdays 5 – 6 p.m. Fridays 10 – 11 a.m.
For more information, call the Wellness Center at 801-587-4585.
Share Stories with Future Generations
Preserve history with YourStory at the Linda B. and Robert B. Wiggins Wellness Center. Created by Meg Brady, University of Utah English and ethnic studies professor and folklorist, YourStory helps cancer patients, their families, and the public document tales of their lives. Recording sessions take place at Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI), or trained facilitators with portable recording equipment visit homes or patients in rooms at Huntsman Cancer Hospital. The first two hours of recording are free with a nominal charge for additional sessions. To make an appointment, call the Wellness Center at 801-587-4585.
All About the Cancer Learning Center
Did you know the Cancer Learning Center (CLC) is Huntsman Cancer Institute’s own cancer library? Designed for patients, their loved ones, and the public, the CLC has more than 3,000 books, audiotapes, CDs, and videos available for you to check out. You can find information about any topic relating to cancer, including diet, fitness, treatment options, coping, caregiving, and biographies.
Do you have questions about your treatment? Do you need help coping with side effects such as fatigue or neuropathy? Do you want to read a story about someone with your type of cancer? With trained cancer information specialists to assist you, the CLC is the perfect place to find information and inspiration.
Our hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended hours (9 a.m. to 7 p.m.) on Wednesdays. Visit us on the first floor of Huntsman Cancer Institute or call 801-581-6365.
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