Cancer is a common disease. In some cases, cancers that run in a family can be caused by a gene mutation. When a high cancer risk gene mutation is passed down in your family, this is called a hereditary cancer syndrome.

Genetic testing is the only way to know for sure whether or not you have a gene mutation that may put you or your family at a higher risk for cancer. A simple DNA sample from your saliva is all that’s needed.

A family history of cancer may indicate that genetic testing makes sense for you. Take our quick hereditary cancer survey to get started →

The process is simple and easy. You will provide a small sample of saliva at a doctor’s office. Then, the sample is sent directly to Myriad Genetic Laboratories to be processed. You can choose to receive your results from your own doctor, a doctor in our trusted network, or from an experienced genetic counselor.

Genetic counselors have advanced training in medical genetics and counseling to interpret genetic test results. They can help provide deeper insight into things like:

• Which genetic tests may or may not be right for you, and what those tests may or may not tell
• How you or your family is affected by an inherited disease and condition
• How family and medical histories may impact your chance of disease occurrence or recurrence
• How to make the most informed choices about your health with regard to hereditary cancer

Because each test is personalized to your individual health history, the cost of genetic testing will vary from clinic to clinic and patient to patient. At Hereditary Cancer Support, it’s our mission to make sure that people have access to truly affordable genetic testing. 97% of private insurance companies provide coverage for genetic testing.

Health insurance providers have different policies about which tests are covered. Want to know if you’re covered? Our nurses are always available to help you learn more. Feel free to reach out to us at (855) 252-8124 to get started.

Test results that could help you and your family make life saving decisions should never be a burden to obtain. Our genetic testing partner, Myriad Genetics, is committed to providing access to the most accurate genetic testing for ALL appropriate patients. If a patient encounters ANY financial hardship associated with their bill, Myriad will work directly with the patient toward their complete satisfaction.

Only you and your healthcare provider will be able to see the results you receive from your genetic test. Any personal or family information you provide, and any information gained from the tests you take, cannot be shared without your permission.

No. Federal laws (HIPAA and GINA) and laws in most states prohibit discrimination regarding employment eligibility, health benefits, or health insurance premiums based solely on genetic information. In addition, it is Myriad’s policy that test results are reported only to the healthcare professional who ordered the test, or to a specifically designated provider with your written authorization.

No. A genetic test can only tell you if you carry the gene mutation that can increase your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Knowing your risk can help you and your doctor take action for risk-reduction and treatment. If you do have a gene mutation, you can take steps including:

• Starting cancer screenings at an earlier ag
• Choosing to take risk-reducing medications, or have preventive surgery
• Reducing the risk for a second cancer if you have already had one type
• Educating family members about their potential risks and need for testing

It is strongly encouraged that you share your test results with your family members as this information can be very helpful for family members so they can better understand their cancer risks and decide whether testing is right for them.