The short answer
Genetic testing can look at inherited risk or at changes in a tumor. Useful questions cover which kind of test it is, what results could mean, and how they affect care and family.
There are two main kinds: inherited-risk testing and tumor testing.
Ask which kind is being recommended and why.
Ask what the possible results could mean for your care.
Inherited results can affect relatives, so ask about that.
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The full explanation.
Two different tests, one name
"Genetic testing" can mean two quite different things in cancer care. One kind looks at inherited risk — genes you were born with that may raise the chance of cancer. The other looks at changes in the tumor itself to guide treatment. A good first question is which kind is being recommended and why.
What the results could mean
Before testing, ask what the possible results would actually tell you. What would a positive, negative, or uncertain result mean for your treatment, your screening, or your risk? Knowing this ahead of time helps you decide whether you want the information.
Thinking about family
Inherited-risk results do not only affect you — they can carry meaning for blood relatives, who might share the same gene change. Ask how any results could affect your family and whether relatives should consider counseling or testing.
Getting expert guidance
A genetic counselor is trained to explain what a test can and cannot show and to help you weigh the decision. Ask whether you can speak with one before or after testing. There is no wrong choice here — the goal is a decision that is right for you.
Words to know
Tap any term to see what it means.
Common questions
▸What kind of genetic test is this?
Ask whether it looks at inherited risk (genes you were born with) or at changes in the tumor itself. They answer different questions and are used differently.
▸What could the results tell me?
Ask what a positive, negative, or uncertain result would mean for your treatment, screening, or risk, so you know what you are signing up to learn.
▸Will results affect my family?
Inherited-risk results can have meaning for blood relatives. Ask how results might affect them and whether they should consider testing or counseling.
▸Should I see a genetic counselor?
A genetic counselor can explain what a test can and cannot show and help you decide. Ask whether counseling is available before or after testing.
Questions to ask your doctor
Being prepared helps you get the most out of your appointments. Save or print these questions.
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