Ovarian Cancer and Genetics
If you are worried about your risk of ovarian cancer, you can speak to a genetic counselor to get more information. A genetic counselor is a healthcare professional who can look at your personal and family history and help you learn about your risk. For help finding a genetic counselor, visit FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered.
If I have ovarian cancer, do I need to have genetic counseling?
All women with ovarian cancer should have genetic counseling. Speak to your healthcare provider for more information. Another good resource is FORCE.
The Society of Gynecologic Oncology recommends that all women with high grade-epithelial ovarian cancer, regardless of family history, receive genetic testing to determine if they carry mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. If you test positive for these genetic mutations, you may have additional treatment options.