Prevention and Early Detection
Cancer Genetic Risk Assessment Program

The Genetic Cancer Risk Assessment program provides genetic susceptibility testing for the hereditary forms of the following cancers.

thyroid rare forms of colon cancer pancreatic cancers melanoma breast ovarian Patients with personal or family history features suggestive of a hereditary malignancy can also be assessed through this program.

Contact Information 904.202.7313 Baptist Cancer Institute 1235 San Marco Blvd. Jacksonville, FL 32207

Our Services

This process begins before the first appointment. Over the phone, we'll take a brief history and explain our services. If further screening is recommended, an appointment will be made for you. Family members are encouraged to accompany you.

Our services include:

• Explanation of the genetic testing process
• A detailed review of your family history, medical history and personal risk factors
• Comprehensive education on lifestyle management, cancer screening, and general health
• Development of a personal plan (in collaboration with your physician) for prevention and early detection
• Psychological counseling

Health Care Team

Assessing one's risk for cancer can be a very intimate and emotionally complex process that is best handled with a team approach. The Cancer Genetic Risk Assessment program is staffed by a medical director, an advanced registered nurse practitioner, and psychologist. This staff is supported by an advisory committee of medical, surgical and radiation oncologists; pathologists; oncology nurses; psychologists and clergy. Additionally, the Baptist Health Cancer Genetic Risk Assessment program is a participating center in the Family Cancer Genetics Network, a group of cancer genetics centers that provide clinical care, education, and research.

Genetic Susceptibility Testing

Since 1996, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recommended that genetic susceptibility testing be offered for patients who have a strong family history of cancer or very early onset of disease. Baptist Cancer Institute developed its Cancer Risk Assessment Program to help these patients prevent malignancy when possible, and to allow their physicians to more effectively screen for cancer so they can detect it early. Additionally, it helps individuals define their risk of developing specific cancers so they can make a more informed decision about their own health.

In 2003, the American Society of Clinical Oncology updated its policy statement and reaffirmed its commitment to integrating cancer risk assessment and management, including molecular analysis of cancer predisposition genes, into the practice of oncology and preventive medicine. Click on the link below to go to the ASCO website and see the entire document.

American Society of Clinical Oncology

The Baptist Health Cancer Genetic Risk Assessment program offers information; counseling; and genetic testing, if necessary, to patients 18 years of age or older who have a strong family history of certain cancers. Patients may be referred to our program by their physician or self-referrals are also welcomed.

Knowledge is power, especially in the battle against cancer. American Cancer Society