Summary
Renee’s blog post on preventative cancer screenings emphasizes the significance of prevention in healthcare. The Couri Center focuses on cervical and breast cancer screenings while promoting healthy lifestyle modifications. We offer Myriad MyRisk genetic testing, which assesses 48 genes associated with 11 different cancers, providing valuable information to our patients. While not everyone may have genetic mutations, over 50% of patients qualify for medical management changes based on the test results. The blog addresses the eligibility for genetic testing, mentioning specific criteria such as family history and Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. Insurance coverage is widely available for hereditary cancer testing, with most patients paying nothing. The blog also highlights the importance of early cancer detection through closer monitoring and incorporating integrative programs like the Couri Center’s Total Lifestyle By Couri.
The Power of Prevention: Cancer Screenings With Myriad Genetic Testing By Physician Assistant, Renee Alwan Percell, @CouriCenter
Prevention is key. At the Couri Center, we focus on cervical and breast cancer screenings. We also focus on healthy lifestyle modifications to promote a happy and healthy life. There are testing options that can go more in-depth to detect your cancer risks. One out of four patients will qualify for hereditary cancer screenings. At the Couri Center, we use a genetic test called Myriad MyRisk. This test checks for 48 genes that are associated with 11 different cancers. This includes breast, ovary, colon, pancreas, skin, uterus, stomach, prostate, renal, lung, and endocrine cancers. While many will not have a genetic mutation that predisposes them to any of these cancers, over 50% of patients will qualify for a medical management change as a result of their genetic test findings. Myriad MyRisk will calculate your lifetime risk for breast cancer. If there is an increased lifetime risk, closer monitoring of breast tissue is recommended.
Genetic Testing for Cancer: Am I a Candidate?
Do I qualify to have genetic testing? You may be a candidate for this cancer screening if you have a family member who had breast cancer at 49 or younger, ovarian, male breast cancer, or pancreatic cancer at any age, uterine or colon cancer at a young age, or if you have Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry. If you are unsure of your family history, you can still talk with a genetic counselor to see if you would be a candidate for this testing. According to Myriad, 95% of private insurance companies have coverage for hereditary cancer testing & 90% of patients who do the testing will pay nothing through insurance coverage and financial assistance.
Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention
Once you have completed the test, our office will receive the report, and we will review what your results mean. The information provided is a great piece of your health/medical puzzle to keep you well and your best self. Cancers are being detected earlier due to closer monitoring, which positively impacts treatment and survival. In addition, if you have an increased lifetime risk for cancer, you can incorporate lifestyle changes through our TLC/Prevent program to help you feel your best. If you have any questions about genetic testing, we are happy to help. Schedule online or call 309-692-6838.
Be Well,
Renee Alwan Percell, MS PA-C
DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided is current as of the date of publication or last review, but medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and the information may become outdated over time.