Description
Patients in the Institute’s care have the option of oncology genetic counseling when indicated in their course of treatment.
This service is for individuals or families in whom a hereditary predisposition to cancer development is suspected. These are situations in which genetic factors transmitted within the family can result in a significantly higher risk of developing certain forms of cancer than in the general population.
The main objective of counseling is:
- Identify individuals with a high genetic risk of developing cancer;
- Activate personalized primary prevention pathways to reduce the risk of occurrence and early detection, i.e., targeted screenings to detect any cancers in early stages, when they are most treatable.
Activities
During the consultation, the specialist collects the patient’s medical and family history, assesses the appropriateness of genetic testing at specialized external centers, and, in case of a positive result, defines a tailored surveillance and prevention plan, shared with the patient and, if necessary, his or her family members.
The specialist deals specifically with the following activities:
- Detailed collection of family and personal history to assess genetic risk;
- In-depth explanation of genetic implications and possible test results;
- Discussion of specific genetic tests available to identify hereditary mutations associated with cancer and interpretation of the results;
- Individualized risk management counseling with guidance on screening programs and preventive measures;
- support and guidance to the patient and family, including with a view to possible treatment or prevention decisions;
- collaboration with other specialists to integrate the clinical and psychological management of the high-risk patient.
Contact
- 1st floor at Outpatient Clinic
- Tel: 011 9933777
How to access
The medical genetics service can only be used by patients already in the care of the Institute.
