Would you try genetic testing? Mar 25, 2008
"Genetic counseling can lessen a person's heightened sense of risk," said Claudia Tinkle, genetics testing manager at DeKalb Medical, one of the first community hospitals in Atlanta to offer the service. "It's peace of mind.". (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Alta Bates Summit opens $13M breast health center Mar 25, 2008
The center housed inside former classrooms on the hospital campus has 30 rooms, including three waiting rooms, a children's play area, four rooms with digital mammography units, three exam rooms, six procedure rooms, three radiology reading rooms, a genetic counseling room, patient navigators and a changing room. The center will be headed by radiologist Dr. Ira Kanter, who will serve as breast imaging director, and surgical oncologist Dr. Lisa Bailey, who is the center's new medical director. (East Bay Business Times, CA)
Family Discussion Plays Role in Breast Cancer Awareness Mar 23, 2008
FRIDAY, March 21 (HealthDay News) -- The willingness of relatives to discuss a family's cancer history has a major impact on the awareness of genetic counseling and testing among women at moderate risk for breast cancer, according to a preliminary U.S. study. Previous research found that black women are less likely than white women to have genetic counseling or testing for genetic mutations that increase breast cancer risk, and that black women are more likely to be diagnosed with a later stage... (Health-Finder)
Frank talk about family breast cancer risk urged Mar 19, 2008
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Women from families who openly talk about their family history of breast cancer are more knowledgeable about genetic counseling and testing, U.S. researchers said on Tuesday ... Researchers at Georgetown University Medical Center and George Washington University Hospital undertook the study to understand why black women participate less in genetic counseling and testing for breast cancer genes than do white women. (Reuters India)
Genetic counselors turn to unconventional counseling to meet demand for genetic testing Mar 17, 2008
Thats becoming a common occurrence as people turn to the Internet and other outlets for genetic testing without genetic counseling. In an effort to broaden accessibility to genetic counseling, researchers are exploring non-conventional counseling methods that challenge traditional approaches ... While in-person genetic counseling is ideal, its not convenient for people who live in rural areas or dont have access to an academic center. (EurekAlert!)
Genetic research unveils common origins for distinct clinical diagnoses Mar 10, 2008
In time, this will empower genetic counseling and much improved patient management. . (EurekAlert!)
Personalized Medicine Can Cut Breast Cancer Risk Feb 20, 2008
Studies have found that genetic counseling and testing do not cause adverse psychological effects. There is convincing data on the risk reduction associated with prophylactic surgery--removal of the breasts and or ovaries to prevent cancer in those with known mutations. (Science Daily)
Genetic Alliance names Genetic Testing as its official journal Jan 31, 2008
Genetic Testing is an authoritative peer-reviewed journal published quarterly in print and online that reports on all aspects of genetic testing, including molecular and biochemical based tests and varied clinical situations; ethical, legal, social, and economic aspects of genetic testing; and issues concerning effective genetic counseling. Tables of contents and a free sample issue may be viewed online. (EurekAlert! -- Business News)
Breast Cancer Gene Testing Less Likely Among Blacks Jan 19, 2008
" Maximizing the use of BRCA1/2 testing requires "good genetic counseling and a personalized attentive approach on the side of the medical team," Evans advised. "We try to take a lot of time to explain the nuances to women and why testing can be of help to them and their families. I think this is especially important with African American patients where there is traditionally a lower level of trust in the medical profession (understandably). (MEDLINEplus)
Cancer gene found in minorities Dec 28, 2007
Doctors are generally aware that Ashkenazi Jewish women are more likely to carry a genetic mutation predisposing them to breast cancer, so they frequently refer these women for genetic counseling. There is little or no awareness, however, that women and men of other racial backgrounds might also benefit from counseling and testing. (Chicago Tribune)
BRCA1 Mutation Prevalent Among Hispanic, Younger Black Women Dec 28, 2007
"There should be widespread use of genetic counseling in these young patients.". Young women who have the BRCA1 mutation and have had breast cancer are at risk for a recurrence of their cancer and also of developing ovarian cancer, Pellegrino said. (MEDLINEplus)
Study finds Hispanic, young black women may be at greater risk for breast cancer Dec 27, 2007
Scientists have known for some time that Ashkenazi Jewish women are more likely to carry the mutation thus they are more likely to be referred for genetic counseling. This new study should encourage physicians to refer women of other ethnicities as well, according to study senior author and Stanford University health research and policy professor Alice Whitemore. (Palo Alto Online, CA)
Stephanie Fernandes keeps in step with BC's marching band Dec 26, 2007
Dave and Terri decided to go through genetic counseling, where they discovered an unknown and unwelcome compatibility: a recessive gene that, when combined, gave each of their children a 25 percent chance of contracting Leber's congenital amaurosis. They now knew there was the same 25 percent chance their second child, a girl, would be blind just like her older brother. (Boston Globe)
Breast cancer's genetic marker Dec 26, 2007
"From other studies, we know that minority women are less likely to be referred for genetic counseling or testing," said Esther M. John, an epidemiologist with the Northern California Cancer Center and lead author of an article appearing in today's Journal of the American Medical Association. "The message to doctors is that these mutations don't only occur in white women, they occur in other ethnic groups.". (SunSpot.net)
Breast cancer gene mutation more common in Hispanic, young black women, Stanford/NCCC study finds Dec 26, 2007
The information could help doctors decide which patients to refer to genetic counseling, the researchers said ... "If a woman has breast cancer she may ask the question, 'Could I be a carrier for a BRCA1 mutation" If I am, my daughters and sons need to know it,'" said senior author Alice Whittemore, PhD, professor of health research and policy at Stanford. She said that until now, doctors knew only that Ashkenazi Jewish women were more likely to carry a mutation, and therefore frequently... (EurekAlert!)
Varying prevalence among ethnic groups of gene mutation that increases risk of breast cancer Dec 26, 2007
Such information may facilitate mutation screening in a clinical setting and is needed to guide resource allocation for genetic testing, genetic counseling, and planning of preventive interventions in all population subgroups, the authors conclude. (JAMA. 2007;298(24):2869-2876. (EurekAlert!)
Should you test your breasts? Dec 14, 2007
"The 'bring it on, the more information the better' attitude we have about genetic testing could really come back to bite us," says Ellen Matloff, director of cancer genetic counseling at the Yale Cancer Center. Genetic counseling, she explains, while invaluable for some, can be detrimental for others ... This is one reason groups such as the American Cancer Society urge genetic counseling. (CNN)
Direct-to-consumer Advertising For Genetic Tests Concerns Physicians And May Mislead Patients Dec 1, 2007
26, 2007) Even when diagnosed with a condition that is a strong genetic predictor of colorectal cancer, many patients do not seek out genetic counseling or cancer screening. According to a recent study in the. (Science Daily)
A bitter inheritance: More women are being tested for gene mutations linked to breast cancer, but don't know what to do next Nov 3, 2007
Lujan underwent genetic counseling and testing, and the results confirmed her suspicions. She carried the BRCA1 gene, one of the two most prevalent genes linked to breast cancer (the other is BRCA2). (Racine Journal Times, WI)
Expanding coverage and costs Oct 24, 2007
Starting in January, the University will begin to institute "U.Va. Health Plan 2008:" a series of reforms to its "low-premium" employee health benefits including free vaccinations, lower prescription drug costs, genetic counseling and increased benefits for preventative services. As a result of the changes, employees with the low-premium plan will end up with better coverage for less money, while employees with "high-premium" coverage will receive mostly the same coverage for slightly increased... (The Cavalier Daily, VA)
Genetic Counseling, Testing: Telling Kids About Inherited Cancer Risk Oct 16, 2007
However, researchers also found that when the co-parent--a spouse, partner or other adult involved in the upbringing and care of the children--attended the genetic counseling session with the woman, they were more informed about genetic testing and had much more interaction and communication with their children than those who did not attend, said Tiffani A. DeMarco, lead author of the study ... The women were undergoing genetic counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk and... (Science Daily)
Couples attending counseling sessions together better prepared to ease children's concerns Oct 14, 2007
However, researchers also found that when the co-parenta spouse, partner or other adult involved in the upbringing and care of the childrenattended the genetic counseling session with the woman, they were more informed about genetic testing and had much more interaction and communication with their children than those who did not attend, said Tiffani A. DeMarco, lead author of the study ... The women were undergoing genetic counseling for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk and providing... (EurekAlert!)
Study Questions Genetic Screening for Treatable Diseases Sep 19, 2007
The study found that there were far fewer pregnancy terminations among couples who, in addition to receiving genetic counseling, also had medical counseling with a Gaucher disease expert -- one of 13 (eight percent) of pregnancies, compared with three of three (100 percent) among couples who did not receive medical counseling ... "Our results suggest that to avoid termination of pregnancies for generally mild conditions, even in a highly educated population, screening programs would require a... (U.S. News & World Report)
Ad campaign fuels debate on breast-cancer gene test Sep 11, 2007
Moreover, primary-care providers who often must squeeze in dozens of patient visits a day lack time and training to prepare patients for the tests, says Ellen Matloff, director of cancer genetic counseling of the Yale Cancer Center. Myriad says it is developing a program to school primary-care doctors about the test. (Moneyweb)
your vital signs. Jul 17, 2007
Before conception is the time to start taking folic acid, seek out genetic counseling, get rid of bad habits and develop good ones, like proper nutrition and exercise. ADVERTISEMENT. (KSBW 8, CA)
What is Tourette Syndrome? Jul 13, 2007
The increase in genetic knowledge will allow for predetermining disease risk factors and bettering curent genetic counseling. Neuroimaging (brain MRIs, etc. (Suite101.com)
U-M, Israeli scientists report major advance in search for genes associated with colon cancer Jul 9, 2007
People with a strong family history of colon cancer, especially cases that began when relatives were younger than age 50, should get genetic counseling and have colonoscopies or other screening tests starting earlier in life than age 50 ... People concerned about a family history of cancer, or those who have been diagnosed with colon cancer before age 50 or after having two or more relatives diagnosed with the disease, should talk to their doctor about the possible benefits of genetic... (EurekAlert!)
Children with trisomy Jul 7, 2007
Laura Seitz, Deseret Morning NewsMary Donohue, 11, is comforted by her mother's touch during a genetic counseling session. Mary, from Stony Point, N.Y., has amazingly thick, curly hair and a pleasant disposition. (Deseret News)
Queen's touts Cancer Center Jul 3, 2007
Among services will be cancer screening and diagnosis, radiation, chemotherapy, surgery, genetic counseling, social services, nutritional care and wellness programs, patient education, music therapy, healing touch, massage and acupuncture. Such a facility was recommended by a Blue Ribbon Panel on Cancer Care convened in 1999 by former Gov. Ben Cayetano with cancer survivors and health professionals. (Honolulu Star-Bulletin)
Michigan runner is a favorite in Mayor's Jun 23, 2007
" 'And I don't make enough money running, so I have to farm.' '' The Gillettes grow hay, corn, soybeans, oats and wheat. They also have cattle. He's an eighth-generation farmer. Gillette last year was ranked fourth in the country among frequent male marathoners by , based on his five victories and seven top-three finishes in eight marathons, which included a 2:27:25. His wife, Melissa, who also ran at Goshen, was ranked 16th among women by the same Web site. She earned one win and two runner-up... (Anchorage Daily News)
New Gene Detection Allows Earlier Cancer Treatment Jun 20, 2007
We think that anyone who has breast cancer diagnosed before age 50, particularly before age of 45, should be seen for genetic counseling and consideration of genetic testing, said Dr. Deborah MacDonald of the City of Hope Hospital of California. Since BRCA affects such a small percentage of women and the test itself is quite expensive, it isnt for everyone. (CBS New York, NY)
Tim Duncan Foundation gives assist to CTRC Jun 15, 2007
The gift will help the CTRC provide screening, genetic counseling, diagnostic follow-up testing and limited treatment to approximately 1,000 low-income, underserved and uninsured individuals in the Bexar County area ... This may include people with limited or no access to diagnostic testing, transportation, risk assessment or genetic counseling. (San Antonio Business Journal, TX)
Follow-up of Patients with Early Breast Cancer Jun 14, 2007
Referral for Genetic Counseling. -->Screening for Recurrence. (New England Journal of Medicine)
TOUCHED BY CANCER Jun 8, 2007
The downside of genetic counseling is, what if the gene is found. she asked. (Dundalk Eagle, MD)
PediDraw: A web-based tool for drawing a pedigree in genetic counseling Jun 8, 2007
Drawing a pedigree is a prerequisite in genetic counseling. In medical records, a pedigree is useful to document the family history of the patient. (BioMed Central)
Icky vs cutesy Apr 29, 2007
Cutesy Congenital Malformations and Genetic Diseases in Comic Books, by A Megarbane and SM Adib (published in Genetic Counseling, 2003). The authors say that: "In many comic books, the appearance and/or the behaviour of central or support characters are suggestive of already well-defined medical disorders. The representation of five particular groups or clinical features: mental retardation, abnormal stature, abnormal hair, obesity, and cranial malformations is discussed [here].". (Guardian Unlimited -- Life)
Women with Sickle Cell Need Special Prenatal Care Apr 21, 2007
Women of African-American descent should therefor be offered special screening for blood disorders during pregnancy because "there are clear implications for genetic counseling and screening for urinary tract infections" if the sickle cell trait is detected, Dr. Allison S. Bryant told Reuters Health. Because of the increased risk of multiple births, she added, physicians should know if a woman is a sickle cell carrier, because early detection of multiple pregnancies is important to ensure good... (MEDLINEplus)
MRIs Advised for Women at High Breast-Cancer Risk Mar 29, 2007
The education not only needs to be directed toward women, but toward primary care providers who will now be expected to guide their patients toward these screening models or genetic counseling before making the recommendation of screening MRI.. Related NPR Stories. (NPR)
Incorporating medical interventions into carrier probability estimation for genetic counseling Mar 23, 2007
People presenting for genetic counseling are increasingly reporting risk-reducing medical interventions in their family histories because, recently, a slew of prophylactic interventions have become available for certain diseases. For example, oophorectomy reduces risk of breast and ovarian cancers, and is now increasingly being offered to women with family histories of breast and ovarian cancer. (BioMed Central)
A young woman's DNA test points to an inevitably grim fate Mar 19, 2007
She had attended genetic counseling and visited a psychiatrist, as required by the clinic. She had undergone the recommended neurological exam. (International Herald Tribune -- Health)
People With Genetic Predictors Of Colorectal Cancer Are Not Getting Screened Feb 26, 2007
Even when diagnosed with a condition that is a strong genetic predictor of colorectal cancer, many patients do not seek out genetic counseling or cancer screening. According to a recent study in The American Journal of Gastroenterology, counseling and screening rates could be improved if physicians provided stronger encouragement and more complete information about the benefits of screening to their patients. (Science Daily)
New hope for autistic patients Feb 26, 2007
"The research is very encouraging, especially for genetic counseling," she said. Research is on in the West to develop genetic testing and treatment for autism. (NDTV.com)
New Screening Protocol Identifies More Case Of Lynch Syndrome Feb 24, 2007
D., of the Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm, and her colleagues selected a group of 285 families who had been referred to the Karolinska University Hospital for genetic counseling between 1990 and 2005 because they were at high risk for HNPCC. From those families, 112 patients were screened for mutations in mismatch repair genes, often a telltale sign of HNPCC. The screening procedure detected these mutations in 69 patients and also identified at least 57 HNPCC patients, several of... (Science Daily)
Health Highlights: Feb. 16, 2007 Feb 17, 2007
Genetic counseling that addresses cultural beliefs and values may be one way to achieve that, the researchers said. . (Forbes)
Survey finds perceived risk of recurrence low in African-American breast cancer survivors Feb 15, 2007
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, reporting in the February issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers ntion, say these findings suggest it is important to ensure that African American women understand their risk of developing cancer, and genetic counseling to address cultural beliefs and values may be one way of doing so ... One such intervention is genetic counseling that often includes testing whether a woman has a mutation in one of two genes (BRCA1/BRCA2); women with these... (EurekAlert!)
U-M team: Genetic testing sheds light on degenerative eye disease Feb 14, 2007
Genetic counseling is a crucial part of the genetic testing process, particularly when the patient may face the possibility of blindness, says Ayyagari. The family needs to prepare for all possible test results, understand the implications of test results for the patient and other family members, and be aware of the limitations of genetic testing. (EurekAlert!)
Hospital foundation raising money for cancer center Feb 4, 2007
The cancer center, which is affiliated with the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, will provide medical, surgical and radiation oncology services, as well as new therapies in drug research, genetic counseling, patient education and support services. The hospital expects to break ground on the center and a new outpatient hospital in April. (Dallas Business Journal, TX)
The More Mutations, The Worse The Disease In Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism Jan 23, 2007
This study indicates that IHH is not caused by a defect in a single gene, something that has implications for the genetic counseling of IHH.. Reference: Digenic mutations account for variable phenotypes in idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (). (Science Daily)
Down Syndrome Screening Recommended for All Expectant Moms Jan 4, 2007
Previously, genetic counseling and testing for Down syndrome by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) was automatically offered to women aged 35 and older ... Women who are found to be at increased risk by this first trimester screening should be offered genetic counseling and the option of CVS or amniocentesis. (MEDLINEplus)
ACOG Says All Pregnancies Should Be Evaluated for Down's Jan 3, 2007
Women found to have an increased risk of aneuploidy with first-trimester screening should be offered genetic counseling and the option of CVS or second-trimester amniocentesis. Specific training, standardization, use of appropriate ultrasound equipment, and ongoing quality assessment are important to achieve optimal nuchal translucency measurement for Down's syndrome risk assessment. (MedPage Today)
Test for Down syndrome should be offered to all pregnant women Jan 3, 2007
Previously, women were automatically offered genetic counseling and diagnostic testing for Down syndrome by amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling if they were 35 years and older. Picasa 2. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Health)
Down's syndrome test advice updated Jan 1, 2007
For years, doctors have recommended genetic counseling and diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis for Down's syndrome only to women who are 35 or older. A woman's chances of having a baby with the chromosomal disorder have long been thought to increase sharply after that age. (San Jose Mercury News)
GAIL MARSHALL: Parents' resource celebrates 30 years Dec 29, 2006
And so it began, those mothers coming together under the guidance of a couple of visionary nurses, including a coordinator of genetic counseling, Marion Karian. She called the group Exceptional Parents Unlimited. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Study uncovers mutation responsible for Noonan Syndrome Dec 5, 2006
"These results are the first example of activating mutations in an exchange factor in human disease," notes Neel, explaining that for families at risk for Noonan syndrome, the findings will aid in prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling for the disorder. "Furthermore," Neel adds, "because the other two genes that cause Noonan syndrome are also mutated in several types of leukemia and solid tumors, our findings may also expand our knowledge of cancer pathways.". (EurekAlert!)
NEWSWEEK: Genetic Testing Transforming Diagnosis and Treatment, Tests For Major Illnesses Like Type 2 Diabetes Could Be Available By 2010: 'We Are on the Leading Edge of a Genuine Revolution,' Says Doctor Dec 4, 2006
In August 2000, after comprehensive genetic counseling, Stephanie, her sister, Victoria and their mother, Gayle Smith, learned her results: positive. "It was like a scene out of the Matrix, where everything freezes and starts again," says Stephanie. (PR Newswire)
Innovative cancer research approach features scientists working in a 'boundary-less' environment Nov 29, 2006
This Department of Diagnostic Molecular Genetics will provide genetic testing, genetic counseling, and board-certified medical genetics care all under one roof. A crucial aspect of the program is the scientists' ability to identify individuals at genetic risk for cancer, and to design appropriate interventional strategies for prevention of cancer in the susceptible segment of the population. (EurekAlert!)
Physical effects of heredity Nov 1, 2006
Such information can make you aware of susceptibility, and you can make lifestyle changes, make an appointment for screening or pursue genetic counseling or testing ... Your practitioner might order tests and, depending on results, genetic counseling. (Orlando Sentinel)
Genetic Counseling Helping To Fight Breast Cancer Oct 22, 2006
Both UT Southwestern and Baylor offer genetic counseling. UT Southwestern Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center214-648-4190. (CBS 11, TX)
October Is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Oct 12, 2006
Good Samaritan offers genetic counseling and screening and diagnostic evaluations including mammograms, sonograms, stereotactic biopsies, ultrasound data biopsies and localizations for surgery ... For those who have a strong history of cancer, the center offers genetic counseling. (Suffolk Life Newspapers, NY)
Emotional bully Oct 11, 2006
Women who are at genetic risk need to be more closely monitored and have annual mammograms beginning at the age of 25 (for other women, mammograms should begin at age 40), biannual clinical exams and genetic counseling. There is good news. (Korea Herald, Korea)
New breast cancer screening tool helps general practitioners Sep 11, 2006
Therefore, identification of the high risk patients with this hereditary cancer syndrome in the general practice is critical for early referral for genetic counseling and rigorous screening ... The authors conclude that this study "demonstrated that a simple point scoring system (PAT) performs very well in identifying women in a screening mammography population who would benefit from referral to a cancer risk clinic for genetic counseling and consideration of DNA testing of appropriate family... (EurekAlert!)
Relatively Few U.S. Women Carry BRCA Mutations Sep 9, 2006
"Key hallmarks of an increased risk of being a BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation carrier among women with breast cancer include family history of ovarian cancer, early age ( "Women with breast cancer who have any of these characteristics are the most likely to benefit from genetic counseling and testing. " The researchers hope the findings "heighten awareness of family history traits and demographics that indicate a potentially heightened chance of carrying a mutation," Malone said. "At the same time, it is... (MEDLINEplus)
A 19-Year-Old Woman with Difficulty Walking Aug 24, 2006
Please for full text and personal services. Nagagopal Venna, M.D., Katherine B. Sims, M.D., and P. Ellen Grant, M.D.. (New England Journal of Medicine)
Health Highlights: July 18, 2006 Jul 19, 2006
"The immediate implications are that we can now begin to offer genetic counseling and genetic testing for affected families," researcher Dr. Ian Mackenzie, a neuropathologist at the University of British Columbia, told the CP.. "And perhaps even the more important slightly long-term goal is that the knowledge we've gained has very strong implications for possible treatment strategies," Mackenzie added. (Forbes)
The biology of mental illness Jun 17, 2006
"It's a complicated public health message," says Holly Peay, co-chairwoman of the psychiatric genetic special interest group for the National Society of Genetic Counselors and associate director of the genetic counseling training program at the National Human Genome Research Institute in Bethesda. "What we're hoping happens is that the public and individuals and families increasingly understand that mental illness has a strong biological component and a strong environmental component.". (Sun-Sentinel.com)
