The purpose of the Cancer Risk Clinic program is three-fold:

• Patient Care
• Research
• Education

Patient Care

The Cancer Risk Clinic is devoted to the identification and care of individuals with any condition or circumstance associated with an increased risk of cancer. Clinical and laboratory methods are used to assess the risk of future occurrences of cancer in individuals and in families.

Typically, assessing cancer risk involves an extensive family history with construction of the family tree, documentation of all cases of cancer in the family, and a detailed history of environmental and occupational exposures to cancer-causing agents, including tobacco and alcohol use. Information for each patient and family is reviewed by our cancer genetics team, which includes physicians, genetic counselors, and nurses. A visit to the clinic will usually involve a complete physical examination by a physician. The results of the assessment are presented to patients and families by an oncologist and a genetic counselor. Our experienced team is sensitive to the wide range of psychological, family, and financial (eg, insurance) implications of this information. Recommendations are discussed with the patient and family members concerning cancer prevention and surveillance. If you wish, all information can be provided to your family physician or your referring physician.

If you are at increased risk, the clinic offers strategies to lower risk. This may include frequent cancer screening tests, changes in diet or lifestyle factors, cancer-preventing medications, and education about reducing cancer risk. In addition, we have resources available to assist individuals and their family members with the medical, psychological, and social impact of their condition.

Research

The Cancer Risk Clinic program serves as a forum for clinical research. It is a resource for basic laboratory research with the goal of improving our understanding of conditions associated with an increased risk of malignancy. All research is done to improve our ability to care for such individuals.

Education

The Cancer Risk Clinic program welcomes and encourages the participation of practicing physicians, physicians in training, medical students, and genetic counselors for the purpose of education.