Colon Cancer Genetic Testing

What Is Genetic Counselling?

Information from genetic testing can have a profound impact on your life. Genetic counsellors are trained to explain the test and its results, but you make the decision about whether to have the test. A genetic counsellor can help you make well-informed decisions. Ask to have genetic counselling before making a decision about testing. Genetic counselling can help you and your family:

• Understand medical facts, including what causes diseases, how a diagnosis is made, and what you may be able to do to help you manage a disease.
• Understand how your family history contributes to the development of a disease.
• Understand what you can do to help prevent a recurrence.
• Learn about caring for a family member with a genetic disease, including getting referrals to specialists or joining support groups.

Genetic counsellors are trained to help you and your family make informed decisions. They are sensitive to the physical and emotional aspects of these decisions. Your privacy and confidentiality are carefully protected.

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Author:	Douglas Dana Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC	Last Updated: March 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology
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