Hereditary cancer screening involves genetic testing to identify inherited variants that increase cancer risk, which may enable early detection and preventive measures for those with a family history of cancer. Test for 154 Genes.
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Arrange your blood test in our City of London Clinic - open 7 days a week. We use Fulgent's Hereditary Cancer Panel for 154 genes.
Results take 3-4 weeks and once received we will arrange a call to discuss the results with our genetic counsellor.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Testing for familial cancer risk can be helpful for individuals with a diagnosis of cancer or a family history of cancer, as it helps identify inherited genetic variants that increase cancer susceptibility. Early detection through genetic testing can enable at-risk individuals to access preventive measures or screening in some circumstances.
Understanding your familial cancer risk also allows for personalised healthcare planning. It empowers you to make informed decisions about lifestyle changes, regular screenings, and preventive interventions. By proactively managing your inherited cancer risk, you can take control of your health and your cancer risk.
5-10% of cancers have a hereditary cause, usually those where there is a family history of certain types we might link together, or diagnosed at younger ages.
Cancer genetic counselling is a specialised service that offers individuals and families information and support regarding inherited cancer risks. A genetic counsellor evaluates your personal and family medical history to determine the likelihood of a hereditary cancer syndrome, discusses the benefits and limitations of genetic testing, and guides you through the decision-making process about your healthcare options. There is no pressure to have any genetic testing as a result of a genetic counselling session.
Engaging in cancer genetic counselling empowers you to understand your genetic predisposition to certain cancers, enabling proactive steps towards prevention or early detection. By identifying some genetic variants, you can benefit from personalised screening programmes, risk-reducing strategies, and tailored medical management. Cancer genetic counselling plays a crucial role in facilitating informed choices and improving health outcomes for those at increased risk of hereditary cancers.
Risk factors for genetic conditions include a family history of genetic disorders, certain ethnic backgrounds, and specific medical conditions. Environmental factors and lifestyle choices can also play a role. Understanding your risk factors through genetic counselling can help you take proactive steps to manage your health.
Genetic counselling can have a profound impact on your life. It provides clarity and understanding about your genetic health, helping you make informed decisions about your future. With the support of our genetic counsellors, you can manage potential risks, plan for a healthy family, and feel confident in your health choices. This proactive approach leads to better health outcomes and peace of mind.
Spital Clinic is dedicated to providing personalized cancer genetic testing that takes into account an individual’s unique medical history, family background, and specific concerns about cancer. By evaluating a patient’s personal health records and family patterns of cancer, the clinic can identify relevant genetic variants that may influence cancer risk. This tailored approach allows for a more precise assessment, ensuring that individuals receive
targeted information and recommendations based on their circumstances. Furthermore, Spital Clinic prioritizes open communication, empowering patients to express their worries and preferences, which enhances the overall experience and supports informed decision-making about their health and preventive strategies.
Some examples of the genes we can test for can be found below:
Breast and ovarian cancer Genetic Testing
Lynch Syndrome Genetic Testing
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) Testing
Li-Fraumeni Syndrome Genetic Testing
Cowden Syndrome (PTEN Hamartoma Tumour Syndrome) Testing
Hereditary Melanoma Genetic Testing
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) Syndromes Testing
Hereditary Retinoblastoma Testing
Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) Disease Testing
Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome Genetic Testing
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Type 2 Testing
Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer Testing
Ataxia-Telangiectasia Genetic Testing
Hereditary Paraganglioma-Phaeochromocytoma Syndrome Testing
Bloom Syndrome Testing
Multi-Gene Panel Testing
We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.
You have a question about Genetic Counselling? We have an answer.
Spital Clinic is the exclusive provider of Fulgent Genetics' Hereditary Cancer panel in the UK. You can find out more about their revolutionary test by following this link. Fulgent Genetics offers comprehensive hereditary cancer testing panels that analyse up to 154 genes associated with hereditary cancer syndromes. These panels encompass well-established cancer-related genes and emerging candidate genes, providing a thorough assessment of potential genetic predispositions. The tests are designed to detect germline pathogenic variants, enabling individuals to understand their inherited cancer risks and take proactive measures.
Fulgent's hereditary cancer panels are customisable, allowing healthcare providers to tailor the test to each patient's unique clinical and family history. The panels offer 99% coverage at 50x depth, ensuring high accuracy in detecting genetic variants. Sample collection is flexible, accepting blood, extracted DNA, buccal swabs, or saliva, with collection kits available upon request. By identifying pathogenic variants, patients can benefit from increased surveillance, preventive strategies, and personalised medical management, while also providing valuable information for at-risk family members.
Fulgent Genetics' hereditary cancer panels are designed to assess genetic predispositions across a wide spectrum of cancers. The panels include genes associated with:
Breast Cancer
Ovarian Cancer
Colorectal Cancer
Endometrial Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Gastric (Stomach) Cancer
Pancreatic Cancer
Melanoma
Renal (Kidney) Cancer
Thyroid Cancer
Hematologic Malignancies (such as leukaemia and lymphoma)
Sarcomas
Paraganglioma and Pheochromocytoma
Multiple Endocrine
Neoplasia Syndromes
By analysing up to 154 genes associated with these and other cancers, Fulgent's panels provide a comprehensive evaluation of hereditary cancer risks, enabling personalised medical management and informed decision-making for patients and their families.
Genetic tests are generally highly accurate, but no test is 100% perfect. Accuracy depends on the specific test and condition being screened. Some tests provide clear yes/no answers, while others indicate increased risk. False positives and negatives can occur, though rarely. Interpreting results often requires expertise from genetic counsellors or specialists. They can explain the significance of your results in context. Your genetic counsellor can help you understand the need for genetic testing and refer you to specialists for more complex cases.
Cancer genetic testing is a specialised type of medical test that analyses DNA to identify inherited gene mutations that may increase the risk of developing certain cancers. These tests focus on genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and others associated with hereditary cancer syndromes. The results can provide valuable insights into an individual's likelihood of developing cancers such as breast, ovarian, colorectal, and prostate cancer.
Anyone with a family history of cancer, especially if it involves multiple relatives, early-onset cancer, or rare cancers, should consider genetic testing. It is also recommended for individuals of certain ethnic backgrounds, like Ashkenazi Jewish descent, who have a higher prevalence of specific genetic mutations. Consulting with a genetic counsellor can help determine whether testing is appropriate and guide you through the process.
Cancer genetic testing is a simple and non-invasive procedure. It typically involves providing a blood or saliva sample, which is then analysed in a specialised laboratory to look for specific genetic changes. The entire process is safe, and results are usually available within a few weeks.
Before undergoing testing, you’ll have a pre-test consultation to discuss your personal and family medical history, potential risks, and benefits. A post-test consultation follows to help you understand the results and any recommended next steps, such as increased screening or preventive measures. This ensures you are fully informed and supported throughout the process.
The results of cancer genetic testing can be positive, negative, or uncertain. A positive result indicates the presence of a gene mutation linked to an increased cancer risk, which doesn’t guarantee you will develop cancer but suggests a higher likelihood. A negative result means no relevant mutations were found, but it does not entirely eliminate the risk of cancer, especially if other risk factors are present.
Uncertain results occur when the test identifies a genetic variant whose significance isn’t yet clear. Regardless of the outcome, your healthcare provider or genetic counsellor will explain what the results mean for you and your family. They may recommend personalised strategies for monitoring and managing your health, such as lifestyle changes, regular screenings, or preventive treatments.
Yes, cancer genetic testing can significantly benefit family members by providing crucial information about their own cancer risks. If a gene mutation is identified, relatives may also carry the same mutation and can undergo targeted testing. Early knowledge of genetic risks enables families to take proactive measures, such as regular screenings or preventive treatments, to reduce their chances of developing cancer.
Additionally, a negative test result for a family member may offer reassurance by confirming they did not inherit the mutation. Genetic testing results also contribute to the broader understanding of hereditary cancer syndromes, paving the way for better prevention and treatment strategies for future generations. Always consult a genetic counsellor to discuss how your results may impact your family.
Cancer genetic testing is available through the NHS for individuals who meet specific criteria, such as a strong family history of certain cancers. If you qualify, your GP or specialist will refer you to a genetic counselling service. However, NHS testing may focus on specific genes and have a longer waiting time due to high demand.
Private genetic testing is an alternative for those who do not meet NHS criteria or prefer quicker results. Private clinics typically offer a broader range of tests and more extensive genetic panels, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment. Costs vary, so it’s important to discuss pricing and what the package includes before proceeding.
According to verified reviews from platforms such as Doctify, TrustPilot and Google - 99% patients have a positive experience at Spital Clinic.
"Great experience. Frustratingly we had 3 NIPTs come back with no result so had to do 3 blood redraws but thanks to LPC’s persistence we finally got a result on the 4th draw. After the 3rd no result they also kindly offered us a free anomaly scan."
"I had a surprisingly positive experience. The most friendly and helpful staff, clean and beautiful premises. The visit was smooth and quick but never felt rushed and I was able to ask all the questions I had. Thanks so much!"
"The service was exceptional from the moment we booked to the moment we left the building post our appointment. The lovely colleagues at the main desk were great and approachable. They made the whole process very comforting."
"I really recommend this clinic, everything was smooth and perfect. All staff are helpful and our sonographer Miss Shaz is an expert on her job, she is very kind and explained everything that we asked. I am glad to choose LPC."
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.
