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    • Home
    • More about risky genes
      • What are risky genes?
      • High risk ethnic groups
      • How to test
      • After a positive result
      • Screening
      • Prevention
      • Early menopause
      • Fertility preservation
      • Cancer Signs and Symptoms
      • I have hereditary cancer
      • Family and loved ones
    • Resources
      • Specialized clinics
      • For medical professionals
    • Get connected
      • Contact Us
      • Social media
      • Events
    • Awareness Program
    • Support us
      • Donate
      • Other ways to help
  • Home
  • More about risky genes
  • Resources
  • Get connected
  • Awareness Program
  • Support us

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FAMILY AND LOVED ONES

Who else should be made aware of genetic testing

Who else should be made aware of genetic testing

Who else should be made aware of genetic testing

If you are found to be a risky gene carrier, close biological relatives, such as parents, siblings and children may also have inherited risky genes.  More distant relatives on that side of the family may also want to be made aware of your status. 

Ask your genetic counsellor who you should notify so they can consider genetic testing.  

Reasons to submit to genetic testing

Who else should be made aware of genetic testing

Who else should be made aware of genetic testing

Knowledge is power.  If relatives learn they also carry risky genes, it gives them access to screening and possible cancer intervention options. It also provides their current or future biological children with the same opportunities.

Males

Loved ones

Loved ones

For years this condition was framed in a way that created the widespread misperception that only females could be risky gene carriers and develop hereditary cancer.  ANYONE, males included, can carry risky genes, develop hereditary cancer as a result, and pass down their risky genes to biological children, although it is more likely for those with a certain family cancer history or ethnic background.

Loved ones

Loved ones

Loved ones

The person you love has received life-changing information that will affect you because of how it affects them, and any children you already have or anticipate for the future.  Their body and mental health may change, testing your relationship and adjusting plans.  You also need to ensure you have a good support system and empower yourself with information that will help to cope.


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Disclaimer:  This website is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice, nor is this information intended to replace advice offered by medical professionals.

We changed our name

Risky genes is a genetic condition that can cause any of several types of cancer due to the presence of inherited mutations in any of  many different genes.  Our old name, The Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Society, was based on old science that no longer reflects the true scope of this condition.

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