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Genetic Health Program For Men & Women

Stamford Health’s Comprehensive Center for BRCA & Genetic Health provides support for men and women, whether you know you have a genetic mutation or are interested in pursuing genetic testing. Inheriting a genetic mutation like BRCA1, BRCA2, or other related genes, leads to an increased risk of cancers like breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate.

Understanding and navigating a genetic mutation can be overwhelming. Our team brings together experts in genetics, gastroenterology, gynecologic oncology, endocrinology, and other fields to interpret complex genetic information, so you receive extensive insight and a personalized plan to help you understand your specific situation for long-term health and well-being.


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Our multidisciplinary team has experience in all types of genetic mutations including BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CHEK2, MSH2, CDH2, BRIP 1, RAD51C, ATM, TP53/Li Fraumeni, Lynch Syndrome (MLH1, MSH2, MSG6, PMS2, EPCAM), and more.

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Our board-certified team of genetic counselors and geneticists will assess your risk for a variety of health conditions. The team provides testing options, reviews genetic test results with individuals and families, and offers support in helping you reach highly personal decisions.

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Experts at the Women’s Specialty Center, Breast Center, and Carl & Dorothy Bennett Cancer Center will provide you with a tailored risk assessment, recommendations, and support. Our providers will explain what the findings and choices mean for you and your family and answer your questions. We will help you decide which options best meet your needs.


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Risk Factors for BRCA1, BRCA2, & Related Genes

There is no wrong time to pursue genetic testing, though if you have any of the highlighted risk factors below it could indicate an increased likelihood of a BRCA gene mutation, and you may want to pursue testing sooner.


FAMILY HISTORY

You may be at an increased risk for BRCA1 or BRCA2 if your family history includes several relatives with breast cancer; any relative with ovarian cancer; relatives who had breast cancer before age 50; a relative with cancer in both breasts; a male relative with breast cancer; or Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry and any relative with breast or ovarian cancer.

KNOWN GENETIC MUTATION

If you have a relative who has a known BRCA gene mutation, you could also have it. Parents, siblings, and children are the family members who are more likely to have the same BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Other blood relatives such as aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, are also more likely to have the same mutation.

PERSONAL HISTORY OF CANCER

You may have a higher risk for a mutation if you have had breast cancer before age 50; male breast cancer; triple-negative breast cancer; ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer, or primary peritoneal cancer at any age; both breast and ovarian cancer; breast or ovarian cancer at any age and you are of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry; breast cancer and you have a family member with breast or ovarian cancer.



What To Expect Next

COORDINATED CARE

Stamford Health’s nurse navigators will work with you to schedule screenings and facilitate appointments. Navigating this journey can be challenging, but our team is here to support you.

PREVENTIVE SCREENINGS

Depending on your genetic risk, you may want to start screening for certain cancers sooner than a person with average risk. Our providers will work with you to schedule these screenings, review the results, and establish a future screening plan.
ACCESS TO CUTTING-EDGE CLINICAL TRIALS
Our collaboration with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center means we have access to the latest clinical trials – including novel strategies for risk reduction (prevention) and early detection.

Our Collaboration With Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center Provides More Resources for Patients

Stamford Health’s comprehensive, ongoing collaboration with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center ensures that our patients receive world-class, clinical expertise close to home. Stamford Health physicians work together with Dana-Farber Brigham physicians, including on weekly tumor board sessions for case review, to offer timely second opinions and allow access to the latest research, treatment options, and clinical trials. For more information on how this unique relationship helps our patients, watch the video.


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FAQs About BRCA & Genetic Health

  • WHAT DOES BRCA STAND FOR?
    BRCA stands for "BReast CAncer susceptibility gene." There are two main types, BRCA1 and BRCA2. Both genes help repair cell damage and keep breast, ovarian, and other cells growing normally. However, inherited mutations in these genes can significantly increase the risk of developing breast, ovarian, and other types of cancer. Inherited BRCA mutations are passed down from one generation to the next, making it important for individuals with a family history of these cancers to consider genetic testing. It is important to note that both men and women can inherit these gene mutations.
  • HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU QUALIFY FOR BRCA TESTING?
    You might qualify for BRCA testing if you have a personal or family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer, especially at a young age, or if any family member has a known BRCA mutation. Stamford Health offers a genetic risk assessment to help determine if you should undergo genetic testing based on your medical and family history.
  • DOES STAMFORD HEALTH OFFER TESTING FOR GENETIC MUTATIONS OTHER THAN BRCA?
    In addition to BRCA1 and BRCA2, we test for mutations in genes such as PALB2, CHEK2, Lynch Syndrome (MLH1, MSH2, MSG6, PMS2, EPCAM), CDH, BRIP1, RAD51C, ATM, TP53 (associated with Li-Fraumeni Syndrome), and many others. These genes can indicate an increased risk of various cancers, including breast, ovarian, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, among others. Understanding these mutations helps us guide you through personalized preventive measures and treatment options.
  • DOES INSURANCE COVER GENETIC TESTING?
    Many insurance plans cover genetic testing, especially when it is recommended due to a personal or family history of cancer. Coverage can vary, so it's important to verify with your insurance provider. Stamford Health's financial counselors can assist you with understanding your coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
  • WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU DON’T KNOW YOUR FAMILY HISTORY?
    If you don’t know your family history, genetic testing can be a valuable tool to evaluate your genetic health risks. Discussing your personal health history and any symptoms related to cancer with a genetic counselor at Stamford Health can provide crucial guidance. Genetic testing may be particularly beneficial for uncovering inherited risks and planning appropriate preventive measures, even when family medical history is not available.
  • WILL YOU REVIEW THE RESULTS FROM A MAIL-ORDER GENETIC TEST?
    Yes, our genetic specialists at Stamford Health can review and interpret results from mail-order genetic tests, including popular services like 23andMe, Ancestry, or other genetic test providers. We encourage you to bring these test results to your initial appointment with a genetic counselor. Many times, testing needs to be repeated if it is not done via a certified laboratory. This does not impact insurance coverage. While these tests can provide valuable insights into your genetic makeup, it's important to have them reviewed by health care professionals. Our team can help you understand the implications of your results in the context of your overall health and medical history, discuss potential health risks, and recommend any further testing or preventive measures that might be necessary based on a comprehensive assessment.



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