The Cancer Genetics Clinic offers genetic counselling for individuals with a personal and/or family history of cancer. Genetic counselling involves talking about:
- Your medical history and family history of cancer
- Your chances of getting cancer based on your family history and other risks factors
- Cancer screening (tests to check for cancer)
- Options to lower your cancer risk, including possibly medicine or surgery
- Lifestyle choices you can make to help lower your risk
- Whether you and/or your family may be eligible for genetic testing
This service is offered at two locations:
- CIBC Breast Assessment Centre, 711 Concession Street
- Juravinski Cancer Centre, 699 Concession Street
Resources for Patients
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my appointment take?
Approximately 1 hour
Will I have a blood test at my appointment?
Your genetic counsellor/doctor will advise you at your appointment if you qualify for genetic testing. OHIP has criteria that are used to determine who is eligible for genetic testing and this decision is made at your appointment.
I am adopted, can I still have genetic counselling and genetic testing?
If you have no information about your biological family history, we probably cannot provide any useful information to you. If you have had a cancer diagnosis but have no family history information, speak to your doctor to find out if a referral may still be helpful.
I already have cancer, why do I need genetic counselling?
Most cancers occur by chance, but some cancers can run in families (hereditary). Genetic counselling and genetic testing can, in some cases, help us to understand why you developed cancer and what the chances are that you will develop cancer again or that your blood relatives might develop cancer. People with hereditary forms of cancer may also benefit from different treatments than people with cancer that has happened by chance.
I am a man, do I need to worry about my family history of breast cancer?
Most breast cancer happens to women, however, men can also develop breast cancer. Men in families with a strong history of breast or ovarian cancer may have an increased chance to develop breast cancer. Children (especially daughters) of men in these families can also inherit a higher chance to develop cancer through their fathers.
Referral Information
Cancer Genetics Clinic Referral Form
Cancer Genetics Clinic Referral Guidelines
Family History Questionnaire
Referrals can be faxed to 905-575-6316. The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care has established referral criteria for referrals for cancer genetic counseling. Please speak to your doctor about whether a referral might be appropriate for you.
You may be sent a family history questionnaire and be asked to return it prior to being scheduled for an appointment. Please do your best to fill out this form. You may need to speak to your relatives to get information.
