You can, but there are a few considerations prior to registering.

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While genetic testing can help clarify a person’s risk to develop certain cancers, it can also have potential emotional, social, and financial implications. For many cancer types (although not all), changes in medical care due to a positive result may not begin until age 25 or older; knowing one is positive before then may induce stress and anxiety and could be an emotional burden. In addition, there may be additional considerations for future life and disability insurance eligibility.

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Some people who test positive at a younger age might still find this information to be helpful (for family planning, to screen for cancers that might affect them at a younger age, to inform family members, etc.) It's important to consider testing based on your specific family history, including the ages at which cancer has occurred and/or if there is a known genetic mutation.

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To learn more, please click HERE to watch our educational video or HERE to contact our genetic counselors.

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Yes. The panel is appropriate for anyone, regardless of ancestry. 

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Yes. The panel is appropriate for anyone interested in learning more about their hereditary cancer risks. It may be helpful for those who have limited information about the health history of their biological relatives.

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Yes. The panel is appropriate for anyone interested in learning more about their hereditary cancer risks. While the chance of identifying a mutation may be lower, anyone can carry a change in a cancer gene. Individuals with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry have a higher chance to carry a mutation in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, even without a personal or family history of cancer. 

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Please note that without a personal or family history, insurance coverage is expected to be less likely.

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According to Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), health insurance companies cannot change your coverage, eligibility or premiums based on the results of your genetic testing or the health conditions in your family. Please visit  www.ginahelp.org for more information and exceptions to the law as it can depend on the type of insurance and where you live.

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Other types of insurance, such as life, disability and long-term care, do not have restrictions about using your genetic information to set their plans; each state has its own mandates regarding the use of genetic information. Please visit the  National Human Genome Research Institute website for more information on the laws in your state.

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