Genetic Screening and Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer

Ladies

Does breast or ovarian cancer run in your family?

In the United States, breast cancer affects over 250,000 women each year while ovarian cancer affects over 20,000 women each year.1 Some women may inherit genes that increase their risk for these cancers. When this happens, women have a condition called hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

Genetic screening and testing is now available through your doctor

Shireen
Shireen Madani, M.D.

Dr. Madani, at UF Health, now offers genetic screening and testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer as part of your annual wellness visit.

How do you receive genetic screening and testing?

 If you are interested in genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, please provide your family cancer history by:

  1. Clicking on the link you received in a phone text from UF Health or through your MyChart inbox
  2. Answering the questions.

Dr. Madani or a member of her team will review your answers. If the screening results show that you could be at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, she may refer you for genetic counseling and genetic testing (both can take place during your wellness visit).

What happens during genetic testing?

If you choose genetic testing, you will provide a blood or saliva sample during your yearly wellness visit with Dr. Madani. The sample will be checked for changes in genes that could increase the risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

What happens if you have changes in one of these genes?

If you have changes in one of these genes, you may need to see a specialist. This doctor will talk about ways to reduce your cancer risk, such as:

  • Extra cancer screening
  • Medication
  • Surgery

How much does the test cost?

  • Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the test.
  • Without insurance, the cost of the test is $250. Patients are eligible for financial assistance if their out-of-pocket cost is more than $100. 

More questions?

Please email: moreinfohboc@cop.ufl.edu

News

References

  1. https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/breast_ovarian_cancer/basics_hboc.htm