Inherited Risk Breast Clinic
Having certain gene mutations (abnormal genes) can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. At our Inherited Risk Breast Clinic, those who test positive for these gene mutations receive specialized care and a personalized risk reduction strategy.
The two most common gene mutations associated with breast cancer are BRCA1 (BReast CAncer1) and BRCA2 (Breast CAncer2). These genes are passed down from parent to child.
What you should know about the Inherited Risk Breast Clinic
- Not all people who test positive for an abnormal gene associated with breast cancer will develop breast cancer.
- Women in the United States have about a 12 percent chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime. Having an abnormal BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene (or both) can increase the risk of developing breast cancer up to 80 percent.
Why choose Geisinger’s Inherited Risk Breast Clinic?
- Cancer care specialists: At our Inherited Risk Breast Clinic, you receive care from a team of cancer specialists, including a breast surgeon, medical oncologist and genetic counselor. You also receive emotional support and help from a specially trained psychologist.
- World-renowned MyCode ® Community Health Initiative: Geisinger’s MyCode initiative collects saliva and blood from volunteers, before analyzing their genetic information. This effort helps researchers uncover abnormalities that might indicate risk for a certain disease, such as breast cancer. Volunteers are notified of useful findings and may be able to develop strategies to reduce their risk.
- Individualized treatment plans: After meeting individually with cancer specialists at the Inherited Risk Clinic, you’ll receive a personalized breast cancer risk-reduction strategy. This strategy may include additional screenings and a prescription medication for risk reduction. It may also include preventative surgical removal of breasts or ovaries for cases of very high risk.
Related treatment:
Also see High-Risk Breast Clinic
Treats these conditions
People who test positive for a mutated gene associated with breast cancer risk can get specialized care in our clinic.
Specialties and institutes
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