Bethke Cancer Center
Cancer Genetics Program
Several types of cancer are known to have a genetic component—that is, they tend to run in families. Because many patients want to know about their cancer risk, Emerson has established a Cancer Genetics Program in conjunction with the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Cancer Risk Assessment. A member of the MGH staff is available to provide Emerson patients with cancer risk assessments for the following cancers: breast/ovarian, gastrointestinal, renal cell (kidney) and melanoma.
Patients meet with the MGH genetics counselor, provide a blood sample and then meet again after the counselor consults with the physician medical director to interpret the findings. The goal of the Cancer Genetics Program is to assist patients who wish to understand the role genetics plays in their cancer diagnosis, as well as the potential risk for family members.
