An Overview of Cancer Genetic Services in New South Wales

01 Feb 2009
Share this page Email this page to a friend Share this page via Twitter Share this page via Facebook Share this page via LinkedIn

Knowledge surrounding the hereditary basis of cancer has improved rapidly over the past 10 years with the identification of faulty genes which increase a person's risk of developing certain types of cancer (eg breast, ovarian, bowel).

The general role of cancer genetics services is to support individuals who have an increased risk of cancer. The services help individuals understand their personal risk status, their options for cancer risk management, and to explore feelings regarding their personal risk status. Counselling focuses on obtaining and giving information, promoting autonomous decision making and facilitating informed consent if genetic testing is pursued.

Top of page