Genetic counselling helps you and your family make healthcare decisions based on your genes.
You may be asked to do genetic testing. This looks at your DNA to find changes or risks.
This can give you important information about:
Hereditary (inherited) cancer means a genetic change is passed down through families, increasing the chance of certain cancers.
But not all cancers are hereditary. In fact:
Hereditary cancer genetic counsellors are specialists who help you understand your chance of developing cancer. They:
For more information, watch this video:
Understand Hereditary Cancer Part 1
You might want to ask your doctor for a referral to genetic counselling if you or a family member (on either side of your family) have had any of the following:
If you think your family’s cancer history might be hereditary, follow these steps:
Please note:
If you’re a referring physician, visit our refer a patient page to obtain a referral form.
At the Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN) Cancer Centre, all genetic counselling appointments happen over the phone.
During your first or follow-up appointment, the genetic counsellor will:
A geneticist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating medical conditions that run in families.
Genetic testing is a blood test that looks for gene changes that can increase the risk of some cancers.
Not everyone can have genetic testing. In Ontario, there are specific rules to decide who is eligible.
For more information, watch this video:
Understand Genetic Testing and Possible Results of Genetic Testing
Visit the Canadian Cancer Society for more information on genetic testing.
Genetic counselling appointments are covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) if you meet the referral criteria.
Genetic testing is also covered by OHIP but only if you qualify under specific conditions. Your genetic counsellor will let you know if you are eligible.
No. Cancer or health problems on your father’s side or mother’s side are both important. We get half of our genes from each parent, no matter if you are male or female. Also, family members often share similar lifestyles and environments. When talking to your doctor, be sure to mention health issues on both sides of your family.
No. You need a referral from a doctor or primary care provider to get genetic counselling. If you don’t have a primary care provider, you can get a referral from a walk-in clinic.
The Cancer Genetics Clinic at WRHN only sees people with personal or family history of cancer.
If your concern is about a non-cancer genetic issue, please visit the Provincial Genetics Program website to find the right clinic near you.