Cancer Susceptibility Program

What we Provide

Cancer predisposition syndromes tend to run in families. Sometimes family members are aware, and other times they are not. Our genetic counselors are experts at educating families about the implications of cancer predisposition syndromes on various members of the family, including parents and siblings, as well as any future children of individuals with these syndromes.

• Genetics Counseling: We educate families on potential risks associated with certain cancer predisposition syndromes and options for prevention, early detection and treatment.

• Genetic Testing: We perform genetic testing for a number of cancer susceptibilities in clinically appropriate situations. 

• Screening: Our team manages a schedule of screenings appropriate for each cancer predisposition syndrome – ultrasounds, MRIs, blood tests, etc. – to monitor for early detection of tumors. 

• Coordination of Care: We coordinate care with other specialists as needed, including gastroenterologists, ophthalmologists, and surgeons.

Cancer is rare in children but some children do have an increased risk of developing cancer. The Gill Center Cancer Susceptibility Program provides families of children with genetic predispositions to cancer with access to the most advanced genetic counseling, ongoing screening and oncology specialists.

Children are referred to our program when they have a family history of cancer that suggests they could have an increased risk of cancer. Examples include:

• A family member diagnosed with genetic predisposition to development of cancer

• A previous incidence of cancer that is associated with an underlying genetic disorder.

We manage the program in coordination with experts in cancer genetics from UT Southwestern Medical Center.