Irving, TX – As genetic links to a variety of diseases have been identified, testing has become a valuable tool for helping determine a person’s risk. The test itself, however, is only the first part of the process. If genetic counseling doesn’t also go along with the proposition, patients aren’t gaining the full benefit of this procedure.

“Genetic testing has become a valuable resource for helping people and their doctors understand their personal risks for diseases, such as breast cancer,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the Las Colinas Cancer Center. “The counseling component, unfortunately, is often overlooked. Without it patients may not fully understand the value of the information gleaned and what actions, if any, they can take to lower their risks for developing diseases they have genetic links for.”

The lack of genetic counseling was the focus of a study conducted by researchers at the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine. Their study found that only about 12.3 percent of patients sent for BRCA testing for breast cancer, referred by OB/GYNs, received genetic counseling. Out of 1,334 patients followed in the overall study, only about 36.8 percent received genetic counseling.

“Counseling is a critical component in this process,” explains Dr. Echt. “While the testing can help a doctor better understand risks, the counseling component is critical for helping patients understand the outcome while also giving them valuable information that may help them lower other risks and make decisions about healthcare. For those planning families, a genetic counselor may also help them better understand the risk they have of passing along the marker to offspring.”

People who are concerned about genetic links to diseases may find genetic testing helpful and eye opening. A counseling component, however, should go along with the proposition.

About Las Colinas Cancer Center
Las Colinas Cancer Center, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, is committed to providing the personalized, compassionate treatment that can make all the difference in cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in North Texas, offers those battling cancer and blood disorders a safe haven where they can find professional care from some of the nation’s most experienced oncology specialists in a supportive, caring environment with an integrated approach to treatment.