Hereditary Cancer genetics
As a breast cancer surgeon, Dr. Quarterman has been thinking about and testing for genetic mutations for over a decade. She understands the valuable health benefits of genetic testing to her patients and their families.
She is a proud member of the City of Hope’s Clinical Cancer Genomics Community of Practice.
Most cases of cancer (including breast cancer) are caused by the environment or your lifestyle. However, 5-10% are caused by genetic mutations.
What is a genetic mutation?
A gene is a segment of DNA that codes for a specific cell function. There are two copies of a gene – one copy from each parent. A genetic mutation is an incorrect gene copy. When a mutation is present in certain genes, a person may be more prone to types of cancer.
WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT A GENETIC MUTATION?
Certain genetic mutations are so strongly associated with specific cancers that we can offer cancer screening, risk-reducing medication or even prophylactic (preventative) surgery. In people who are diagnosed with cancer, knowing the genetic mutation status may guide the care team on the best therapies to offer.
SHOULD YOU GET TESTED FOR A GENETIC MUTATION?
The decision for genetic testing begins with a consultation. At DBC, Dr. Q provides hereditary cancer genetics consultations. At these visits, she reviews the details of your personal and family health histories. She will then explain to you the benefits and risks of getting tested. She will help you decide if genetic testing is right for you.
GENETIC TESTING IS PERFORMED RIGHT IN OUR OFFICES.
DBC has partnerships with leading genetic testing companies, who provide expert evaluation of patient specimens and deliver results in a timely manner. Dr. Q carefully reviews the test results with her patients and explains what next steps should be taken for their best health.
Want to know more? Contact us for an appointment!
