Genetic Testing: Unlock the Power of Personalized Medicine
Pharmacogenetic testing has revolutionized the way we approach cancer prevention and diagnosis.
The ability to identify genetic variations that influence drug metabolism and toxicity has transformed the field of personalized medicine, allowing for targeted treatments and minimizing adverse effects.
SeeBeyond Medicine is at the forefront of providing comprehensive genetic testing services, empowering patients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health.
Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk at SeeBeyond Medicine
We utilize the MyRisk test from Myriad Genetics to evaluate your hereditary cancer risk status.
The MyRisk test screens for known genetic changes in 11 genes associated with increased risk for:
- Breast cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Gastric cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Melanoma
- Sarcoma
If a genetic change is detected, it indicates you have an elevated lifetime risk for that associated cancer(s).
The benefits of the MyRisk test include:
- Identifying which cancers you are at higher hereditary risk for developing
- Allowing you to take a proactive approach in managing your cancer risk through:
- Increased cancer screening
- Risk-reducing medications
- Risk-reducing surgery
- Appropriate treatment optimization if cancer is diagnosed
- Providing information that can benefit at-risk family members through hereditary cancer testing
The MyRisk test also offers RiskScore for breast cancer risk. This provides:
- A personalized 5-year and lifetime risk estimate for breast cancer based on over 100 genetic and non-genetic risk factors
- Women with a higher RiskScore benefit most from more frequent screening and risk-reduction options.
When combined with your personal and family history information, the MyRisk test gives you a more complete picture of your hereditary cancer risks. This enables preventative strategies and targeted intervention plans designed to help you avoid, detect and treat cancer at the earliest and most treatable stage.
Importance of genetic testing in cancer prevention and diagnosis
Genetic testing is a powerful tool for identifying inherited risk factors for cancer.
By analyzing DNA samples, physicians can determine a patient’s likelihood of developing certain types of cancer and tailor preventative measures accordingly.
Genetic testing also plays a critical role in the diagnosis of cancer, as mutations in certain genes can indicate the presence of specific tumors.
SeeBeyond Medicine offers a range of genetic testing services, including targeted panels for specific types of cancer and whole exome sequencing for a comprehensive analysis of a patient’s DNA.
Our team of genetic counselors provides expert guidance throughout the testing process, ensuring that patients receive personalized care and support.
Overview of genetic testing
Genetic testing is the analysis of DNA to identify changes or variations that may be associated with certain diseases, including cancer.
There are several types of genetic tests, including diagnostic, predictive, carrier, and pharmacogenetic testing.
Definition of genetic testing
Genetic testing involves analyzing a patient’s DNA sample to identify changes or variations that may affect their health.
This can include testing for inherited mutations that increase the risk of certain diseases, as well as changes in genes that affect drug metabolism and toxicity.
Significance of genetic counseling
Genetic counseling is an essential component of the genetic testing process. A genetic counselor can provide patients with information about the risks and benefits of testing, as well as help interpret test results and provide guidance on how to manage any identified genetic risks.
Hereditary cancer and gene mutations
Hereditary cancer is caused by inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
There are several common hereditary cancer syndromes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, Lynch syndrome, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
Inherited gene mutations and cancer risk
Inherited gene mutations can significantly increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and colon cancer.
Genetic testing can identify these mutations, allowing for tailored screening and preventative measures.
Common hereditary cancer syndromes
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer, while Lynch syndrome is associated with an increased risk of colon, endometrial, and other cancers.
Li-Fraumeni syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that increases the risk of several types of cancer. Genetic testing can identify these mutations, allowing for targeted preventative measures and personalized treatment options.
Cancer Types and Genetic Testing
Cancer is a complex disease that can develop due to various genetic and environmental factors. Genetic testing can provide valuable insights into a patient’s individualized cancer risk, which can help improve treatment outcomes and minimize adverse effects.
In this section, we will discuss the most common cancer types and the role of genetic testing in their diagnosis and treatment.
BRCA Gene Mutations and Breast Cancer Risk
BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the most well-known genetic mutations associated with breast cancer. These mutations increase the risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer in both women and men.
Pharmacogenetic testing can identify these mutations, allowing for early detection and intervention.
Male Breast Cancer
Although breast cancer is more commonly diagnosed in women, men can also develop the disease. Male breast cancer is often associated with BRCA2 gene mutations.
Male breast cancer is a rare disease that accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancers in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 2,800 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among men in the United States in 2023.
In 2022, about 2,710 American men were expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, and about 530 were expected to die from the disease.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a complex disease with various genetic and environmental risk factors. BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the most well-known genetic mutations associated with ovarian cancer. Pharmacogenetic testing can identify these mutations, allowing for early detection and intervention.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. While there are no specific genetic mutations associated with the disease, pharmacogenetic testing can identify genetic variations that can impact treatment effectiveness and adverse effects.
Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women. While there are no specific genetic mutations associated with colon cancer, pharmacogenetic testing can identify genetic variations that can impact treatment effectiveness and adverse effects.
Link Between Hereditary Colorectal Cancer and Genetic Mutations
Some patients may have a hereditary predisposition to colon cancer due to genetic mutations, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Pharmacogenetic testing can identify these mutations, allowing for early detection and intervention.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. While there are no specific genetic mutations associated with lung cancer, pharmacogenetic testing can identify genetic variations that can impact treatment effectiveness and adverse effects.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is a complex disease with various genetic and environmental risk factors. Pharmacogenetic testing can identify genetic variations that can impact treatment effectiveness and adverse effects.
Cancer Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Radiation therapy
A standard treatment for many types of cancer. However, not all patients respond to radiation therapy in the same way.
By utilizing pharmacogenetic testing, we can identify genetic variations that affect how an individual metabolizes radiation drugs. This information can be used to tailor the radiation dosage and minimize adverse effects.
Targeted therapy
Another approach to cancer treatment that involves using drugs that specifically target cancer cells. Pharmacogenetic testing can help identify which patients are most likely to benefit from targeted therapy by identifying genetic variations that affect drug metabolism and response.
Surgical oncology
Often used to remove cancerous tissue. However, not all patients respond to surgery in the same way.
Pharmacogenetic testing can help identify genetic variations that affect how an individual responds to anesthesia and pain medication, which can inform surgical decisions and improve outcomes.
Genetic counseling
Plays a crucial role in treatment and prevention decisions. By utilizing pharmacogenetic testing, genetic counselors can provide patients with personalized information about their genetic risk factors for cancer and how they may respond to different treatments.
This information can inform decisions about prevention strategies, such as lifestyle changes and screening programs.
Genetic Tests Offered by SeeBeyond Medicine
At SeeBeyond Medicine, we offer a range of genetic tests that are aimed at providing valuable insights into your health and well-being.
Our partnership with Myriad Genetics allows us to offer advanced testing solutions that are designed to identify genetic mutations and variations that may increase your risk of developing certain health conditions.
These tests cover a wide range of areas, including cancer, cardiology, and reproductive health. By leveraging these tests, we are able to provide you with a comprehensive picture of your genetic makeup and develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs.
From cancer risk assessment to advanced genetic testing, our team is committed to delivering precision medicine solutions that are tailored to your unique genetic makeup.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you unlock the power of personalized medicine.
We’re actively doing Inherited Cancer Screen in the following nearby locations:
Scarsdale, NY
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