Below you will find links to web sites and video's that provide basic information on hereditary cancers, cancer definitions, risk factors, and prevention.

It is generally accepted that 5-10% of all Cancers are hereditary. According to the company that provides a genetic test for Cancer -The best time to beat Cancer is before you get it. The genetic test for Cancer is a simple blood test, however the test is expensive. Federal law (passed in 1996) prohibits the use of genetic testing to inhibit your access to medical insurance. In other words, no insurance company can deny you benefits if you carry the cancer gene. Genetic discrimination is illegal. Genetic counselors suggest that the person already diagnosed with Cancer be the first one tested.

Reliable Links

Myriad
What you can find here:
Myriad laboratory has a decent website for preliminary information. Click on the Inherited Cancer and Genetic Testing links first. There is a family history tool that is pretty good. Financial help is available from Myriad. They appear to be very helpful in assisting individuals with the payment and insurance process. The support links given are standard and we are in the process of evaluating each link. If you have any experience with these organizations, we'd love some feedback. The glossary has some definitions you way want to review. They define terms we have had trouble finding in other places.

Cancer Risk Test
What you can find here:
Harvard Center for Cancer Prevention has created a website that provides an interactive tool to determine your risk of getting cancer. Questionnaire is available in English and Spanish. Documentation says it is more accurate for persons over 40 years old. You need to fill out a simple questionnaire for each of the 12 types of cancer listed. The site also has a test for risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and stroke.
Risk Factors: click on Family History for a number of worthwhile topics. Resources & Materials in this section they have a brochure for colorectal cancer in 8 languages. In the risk factors section click on vitamins; it is worth reading.


Genetic Counseling (Section in process of being updated)