Hereditary cancer is caused by a change in a gene (called a mutation or variant) which is passed down from generation to generation in a family. Family members who inherit the hereditary cancer gene mutation face a higher lifetime risk for certain types of cancer, depending on the gene involved. Families with a hereditary cancer condition (or syndrome) may have a clustering of certain types of cancer in closely related family members, and there may be relatives with more than one cancer during their lifetime.  In these families people often develop cancer at a younger age than usual. 

It is important to note, most cancer is not hereditary, but happens by chance and is influenced by age, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.

At this time, the government cannot fund Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) for all pregnant women due to the cost. Screening for Down syndrome in pregnancy through tests such as maternal serum screening with or without ultrasound is available to all pregnant women, and additional testing may be offered to those ​​identified to be at an increased risk, based on provincial guidelines. You can speak to your health care provider to determine if you are eligible.

Genetic counselling is a healthcare service that provides information to individuals and their families about how genetics can impact health. It also involves supporting families as they adapt to new genetic information.

Genetic counselling may help individuals:

• Understand their chances of having a genetic condition
• Understand the chance of having a biological child with a genetic condition
• Understand the features of a genetic condition and how it is passed down (or inherited) in a family
• Make informed decisions regarding family planning, genetic testing, and future health care, based on genetic test results

Usually, genetic counselling is provided by a Genetic Counsellor. Sometimes doctors, nurses, or other health care providers also provide genetic counselling. 

Genetic counsellors often work in a hospital-based genetics clinic. They also work in laboratories, industry, education, and public health settings. 

A formal definition of genetic counselling can be found in this peer reviewed journal article. 

Most likely you have been offered something called “PGT-A,” which is a type of genetic testing anyone can do on their embryos. It stands for Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy, and it checks the embryo for extra or missing chromosomes before pregnancy. PGT-A is often used to help pick embryos that are more likely to lead to successful pregnancies. But PGT-A does not guarantee a pregnancy or healthy baby. There are many things it can’t detect.

In some cases, a specialized type of genetic testing can be done on embryos. If you or your partner have a specific disease-causing change (i.e. mutation) in one of your own genes, or a rearrangement in your chromosomes, you may be eligible for PGT-M or PGT-SR. Ask your doctor for more information, and to find out if this applies to you.

In Canada, an appointment with a genetic counsellor is often covered by provincial health systems for individuals who meet eligibility criteria.  Eligibility can vary from centre to centre. 

Genetic counselling appointments through a private clinic are typically not covered by provincial health insurance plans.  Some extended health insurance plans may cover a portion of a fee for genetic counselling and/or genetic testing.  Some genetic testing companies offer accompanying genetic counselling services.

Yes, some genetic testing is offered regardless of known family history information.  Also, if you have features of a genetic condition, there may be options for genetic testing to clarify a diagnosis.

For those who do not know about the health of their biological relatives, the results of genetic testing can sometimes be used to provide information about future health care options.