The benefits of genetic testing
What your genes can tell you
Genes testing is not a program to see how tough your Levis are. It is a counseling service that may help tell you more about your heritage, which ultimately could extend your life and those of your family members.
For example, Louise was diagnosed with breast cancer. Nearly a year after her surgery and months of aggressive chemotherapy, she is now in recovery and doing very well.
While the cancer is behind her, the complex information in Louise's genes that indicates she is at risk for breast cancer is still very relevant, especially for her sister and her three children.
"My sister had heard about genetic testing and asked if I could have it done," said Louise. "If the results come back positive, then she's at a much greater risk at having breast cancer too. From there she can take the necessary steps to take similar testing to potentially prevent cancer in her and in her children's futures."
Those steps could include surveillance, medications, or preventive surgery. The results will also help Louise determine her future course of screenings and other preventive care.
This is the basis for genetic counseling now available at The Cancer Care Center at Battle Creek Health System. It is a practice that turns complicated genetics knowledge into practical information for individuals and their families.
Genetics is a rapidly growing specialty with new developments emerging virtually daily, says Dr. Randy Mudge, director of radiation oncology at BCHS. "Our program, in partnership with the Saint Joseph Cancer Institute in South Bend, Indiana is dedicated to providing the most up-to-date testing technologies for our patients."
The program offers:
- Genetic testing
- Genetic counseling
- Risk assessments
- Cancer screening recommendations
Counseling and testing can assist individuals, families, and their physicians:
- Determine the likelihood of the cancer in a family being inherited or passed down from generation to generation.
- Provide options for early detection and risk reduction for future cancers for the individual and family.
- Assist cancer survivors with future methods of prevention.
Consider genetic testing if you:
- Had a diagnosis of cancer under the age of 50.
- Have been diagnosed with more than one type of cancer.
- Have been diagnosed with cancer and have more than two relatives on the same side of the family with the same type of cancer.
- Have a family history of a known genetic condition.
For more information, talk with your family health care provider or call The Cancer Care Center at (269) 966-8647.
Battle Creek Health System, sponsored by two parent organizations--Trinity Health (the fourth largest Catholic health system in the U.S. with 12 hospitals, 9 nursing homes, 19 senior house facilities, 8 home health care agencies, and 4 hospices in Michigan alone) and BCHS Community Partners, is accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Battle Creek Health System as a recipient of the 2008 HealthGrades Orthopaedic Surgery Excellence Award(tm). HealthGrades is a leading health care information company that provides objective 'report card' ratings nationwide. BCHS provides excellent health care for the community and promotes wellness for the whole person with access and compassion for all. For the latest medical information, visit the BCHS web site at www.bchealth.com or call the BCHS Marketing Department at (269) 966-8132.
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