What your genes can tell you about cancer

Cancer is influenced by many factors, including lifestyle, environment, and chance, among others. But for some people, the risk starts before any of those things come into play. Inherited gene mutations, ones you're born with, can raise the likelihood of developing certain cancers, including breast, ovarian, colorectal and pancreatic cancer. A genetic test can identify whether you carry one of these mutations, giving you and your care team information to act on.

At Mays Cancer Center, genetic testing begins with something simple: a blood or saliva sample. From there, a certified genetic counselor analyzes the results alongside your personal and family health history to help you understand what they mean and what steps, if any, make sense for you.

"Genetic testing doesn't just inform individual care, it can provide valuable information for family members and future generations," says Lauren Mills, MS, CGC, a certified genetic counselor at Mays Cancer Center.

That point matters more than it might seem at first. A positive result doesn't just affect you. It can signal elevated risk for siblings, children and other relatives who may be unaware they carry the same mutation. Genetic counseling can help families navigate those conversations and decide whether testing makes sense for their loved ones.

If you've already been diagnosed

For patients already in treatment, genetic testing can play a direct role in shaping your care. Certain mutations respond better to specific therapies, and knowing your genetic profile can help your oncology team make more targeted treatment decisions — including which medications are most likely to be effective and whether specific surgical options are worth considering. Your genetic counselor works closely with your oncology team to make sure those insights are integrated into your overall plan.

If you haven't been diagnosed

You don't have to have a cancer diagnosis to benefit from genetic counseling. If you have a family history of cancer, a parent, sibling or grandparent who was diagnosed, especially at a younger age, that history can be a signal worth exploring. Early awareness gives you options. Depending on your results, your care team may recommend more frequent screenings, earlier start dates for routine tests or other preventive steps tailored to your specific risk profile.

What to expect

The process is more straightforward than many people expect. After your sample is collected and analyzed, your genetic counselor will walk you through your results in plain language, answer your questions and help you think through next steps. There's no obligation to act on any particular recommendation; the goal is to give you the information you need to make decisions that are right for you.

Genetic testing won't predict the future, but it can give you a clearer picture of your risk and more control over what comes next.

To learn more or schedule a consultation with the Mays Cancer Center genetics team, call 210-450-1000.