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For men facing a higher risk of prostate cancer, genetic testing might be a consideration to assess the potential risk for you and your family members. It’s wise to consult with a medical practitioner who can then refer you to a genetic counselor.
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These professionals provide patients with a genetic overview and how this pertains to prostate cancer. They will explore the advantages and limitations of options like the Prolaris prostate cancer genetic test to ensure you are well-informed for optimum decision-making.
If testing is performed, the counselor will review the results and potential health concerns. The results will be shared with your oncology team for the development of care strategies. Detecting the disease early is critical for effective treatment and increased chances of survival.
If the doctor feels the five-year survival rate is exceptionally high, treatment might be avoided. If treatment is deemed necessary, it will typically involve surgery, hormone therapy, radiation or chemotherapy, or a combination of treatments.
What Is Genetic Testing and Why Consider It
Studies have found many hereditary genes related to prostate cancer for which genetic testing like the Prolaris tests have been beneficial in assessing men’s risk for developing the disease. Some genes with mutations related to prostate cancer are on BRCA 1 and 2, MLPH, TP53, and CHEK2.
All men have an approximate 10 percent risk for a cancer diagnosis. Still, those with an immediate family history of the disease, like a brother or father, will be considered high risk with an approximate 50 percent chance for a cancer diagnosis.
There’s a “50 percent chance that genes with links to prostate cancer will pass on to the next generation.”
Learn about prostate cancer prognosis at https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/prostate-cancer/prostate-cancer-prognosis/ and then follow here for a favored test used to assess a man’s risk for developing the disease.
Prolaris
The Prolaris genetic testing kit is provided by a brand that has been offering these tests for 25 + years with efforts to educate practitioners and patients on the significance of genetics with passing cancers and other diseases.
The company has performed many different studies that link genetics to a range of cancers and diseases, helping practitioners improve their diagnosis process and develop care plans for these conditions.
Prolaris is covered by most insurance carriers for the entire price, which is $2400 for a test. If you have out-of-pocket expenses, it’s suggested these should be no more than roughly “$60.”
The kit tests for confirmed tumors or provides genetic tests to determine inherited gene mutations that would give you a higher risk for cancer development.
When combined with other screenings, the aggressiveness of the disease can be assessed, as well as the likelihood for it to spread to other body parts. Men with untreated diseases use this testing product.
It’s ideal to assist with developing care plans with its estimated growth spanning up to 10 years, allowing a suitable individualized care plan. It would be best to work with your medical provider and a genetic counselor to take advantage of Prolaris.
The Role of a Genetic Counselor
A medical provider will work with a patient considering genetic testing for prostate cancer and likely refer that client to a genetic counselor. These are healthcare professionals specializing in the details surrounding hereditary-based health conditions.
These individuals assess choices available to the patient and encourage an informed decision when considering genetic tests, focusing on how these results could help providers establish effective care plans. Read here for details on prostate cancer genetic testing.
While these professionals are not doctors, they do serve as primary members of the individual’s medical team. They carry the following credentials:
- A master’s in medical genetics or genetic counseling
- ABGC- American Board of Genetic Counseling certification
- State licensing in one or more locations
This vast training in the field allows patients a vital resource to become informed on inherited risk for conditions including prostate cancer. The counselors have training to assess risks, coordinate/interpret results, and provide emotional/psychological support.
The tools provided by a genetic counselor help patients learn ways to manage possible risks using testing options and take the necessary steps to reduce these risks.
The counselor’s risk assessments involve questions regarding personal and family histories meant to establish a “family tree,” expanding as many as four generations. This detailed data helps provide sufficient criteria to decide if genetic testing is the best recourse.
Final Thought
When considering genetic testing to determine your risk for prostate cancer, the physician will refer you to a genetic counselor who will give you the details on the pros and limitations of testing.
One genetic test often recommended is Prolaris, which is meant to predict the disease’s aggressiveness. It’s frequently suggested to men following a biopsy. The test allows providers to assess risk and further offer details to enable the physician to develop an effective care plan.
