Genetic Testing FAQs
Answers to common questions about genetic testing for cancer.
Cancer Information
Get the latest cancer-related information, including screening recommendations, treatment, technology, risk factors, and statistics. For additional information and resources, we encourage you to sign up for our AWARE newsletter.Assessing Your Cancer Risk with Genetic Testing
Genetic testing – looking back
The first genetic test for cancer became available in 1996. That test, the BRCA 1/2 test, looked for mutations in the two genes most commonly affected in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer — the breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer 2 (BRCA2) genes. Since then, many more cancer genes have been identified, and tests developed to look for mutations.
A New Test for Improved Detection of Prostate Cancer: PSMA (Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen) PET Scan
A new type of scan is helping doctors at The Harold Leever Regional Cancer Center detect very small, hard-to-find areas of prostate cancer, which could lead to better treatment outcomes.
Using Supplements During Chemo: Yes or No?
Americans spend more than $30 billion a year on vitamins, herbals and other supplements. It is not uncommon for our patients to arrive to their oncology consultations with a large bag (or long list) of the supplements they are taking. It has been estimated that 65%-80% of all cancer patients take one or more vitamin or mineral supplements, and many of these patients START taking supplements just prior to starting their treatment.
What You Need to Know About Colorectal Cancer
Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. In 2022, approximately 106,180 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer and 44,850 with rectal cancer, according to estimates from the American Cancer Society.
Five Important Reasons Not to Delay Cancer Screenings
Should you put off your cancer screenings? Experts agree the answer in most cases is “definitely not.” Here’s why:
7 Things to Consider Before You Decide Whether to Get Screened
Many people are still reluctant to get cancer screenings or treatment, but experts suggest you consider several factors before making a decision.
Should COVID-19 Put Your Screening and Treatment Plans on Hold?
“Fear of contracting the coronavirus in health care settings has dissuaded people from screening, diagnosis, and treatment,” Norman E. Sharpless, MD, director of the National Cancer Institute, wrote in Science magazine. “In general, the earlier one receives cancer treatment, the better the results. Cancers being missed now will still come to light eventually, but at a later stage and with worse prognoses.”
What You Need to Know About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States, with an estimated 228,820 new cases diagnosed in 2020 according to the American Cancer Society. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with lung cancer, or if you want to learn about lung cancer screenings and how to prevent or treat lung cancer, here’s what you need to know.
U.S. Death Rates From Cancer Show Steep Decline
A cancer diagnosis is never good news, but for U.S. residents, a cancer diagnosis is more survivable than ever before.