Inspira Health Network

Is Cancer If cancer runs in your family, genetic counseling can help you evaluate your personal risk and possible next steps. It may also help your children or other family members. In 1982, pop artist Joe Jackson had a minor hit with the song "Cancer," which told us: "Everything gives you cancer/There's no cure, there's no answer." Fortunately, that's not true. Certainly there are environmental and behavioral factors that can increase your risk of cancer. Advancing age also increases one's risk. In fact, age is the biggest risk factor for cancer. Interestingly, heredity, which impacts our lives in countless ways, plays a role in only a small percentage of cancer cases. However, when it comes to cancer, your family history should not be ignored. According to Colette Hyatt, M.S., L.C.G.C., genetic counselor at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson, true hereditary cancer syndromes account for only 5 to 10 percent of cancers. For those concerned about the potential for increased risk, genetic counseling may provide answers. What is Genetic Counseling? "Genetic counseling is an educational session during which you meet with a trained professional to learn more about the differences between hereditary and non-hereditary cancers," Hyatt said. "During cancer genetic counseling, you and your counselor will discuss your personal risk for cancer and different options for managing that risk." Genetic counselors are certified medical professionals with graduate degrees and training You Gene? • Frank and Edith Scarpa Regional Cancer Pavilion in Vineland • Inspira Medical Center Woodbury 4 Late Fall 2015 Inspira Health Network Family & Friends + You

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