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A genetic test for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer

Dr. Fisher now offers genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer. Many people don't realize that about 10% of breast and ovarian cancers are hereditary-that is, they are due to a mutated (altered) gene passed on from parent to child. You don't actually inherit cancer, but rather you inherit a higher risk of developing it.

If there's a pattern of breast and/or ovarian cancer in your family, you can reduce your risk. You many benefit from learning more about your own risk. Current cancer research shows that early detection-along with proactive medical care-has been proven to help reduce cancer risk, and save lives.

You could have an inherited risk if:

you were diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 50 and/or ovarian cancer at any age

you have close family members (mother's or father's side) diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 50, ovarian cancer at any age, or male breast cancer at any age.

Two specific genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2 play a big role in preventing breast and ovarian cancers. normally, these genes act like brakes that help stop abnormal cell growth. However, alterations, or mutations, can occur in these BRACA genes. When this happens, the genes do not work as they should, and there is a loss of control on cell growth. Certain groups of cells can grow at an abnormally fast rate, and cancer may develop.

BRACAnalysis® test results may enable you and your family to make more informed choices and decisions.

A woman who discovers she carries a BRCA mutation can decide whether to start screening earlier in life or to reduce her risk by using measures such as medications or surgery.

A woman already diagnosed with cancer can take proactive steps to try to prevent a second cancer. Her healthcare provider may also use the information to make treatment decisions. For example, to help determine whether surgery is needed.

A woman with a family history may also find out she is NOT carrying the gene mutation.

Individuals with family histories of breast or ovarian cancer may want to know whether they carry a mutation that could be passed down to their children.

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the testing process like?
A: After meeting with your doctor or other trained healthcare provider, you will need to sign an informed consent form and provide a small blood sample. Your blood sample will be shipped directly to Myriad. Results can be obtained from your healthcare provider in about 2 weeks.

Q: Will my health insurance pay for the BRACAnalysis® test?
A: Most health insurance plans pay for BRACAnalysis®. In fact, more that 90% of tests receive coverage, and the average reimbursement is greater than 90%.

Q: Can my health insurance company refuse coverage based on the results?
A: No. The Federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, as well as legislation in most states, protects patient privacy and prohibits health insurance discrimination based on genetic information.To date, there are no documented cases of health insurance discrimination as a result of genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian concerns.

Q: Will anyone else know the results of my test?
A: No. Your test results are strictly confidential. Myriad only releases test results to the healthcare provider who ordered the test. Even when insurance plans pay for testing, the insurer does not receive the results. Under no circumstances will Myriad give patient results to any party other than the ordering healthcare provider without the written consent of the patient.

Q: How can I get more information about cancer risk assessment and BRACAnalysis®?
Please talk with your Dr. Fisher, a genetic counselor, or other healthcare provider. You can also call Myriad at 1-800-4-MYRIAD, or visit the website at www.myriadtests.com.