Cancer Genetics Resources
at Virginia Commonwealth University

The Department of Human Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) offers comprehensive genetics services including genetic assessment, counseling, and care coordination for a variety of genetic and inherited conditions including those associated with increased risk for cancer. The Cancer Genetics Clinic is located at VCU's Medical College of Virginia Hospitals in Richmond with a satellite suburban location in the Greater Richmond area. Genetic counseling is available to discuss all gene changes associated with increased cancer risk (i.e., cancer susceptibility syndromes) as well as other genetic or inherited conditions associated with increased risk for cancer.

What Do I Do if I am Interested in Genetic Counseling?

Individuals interested in pursuing genetic counseling complete a brief personal and family medical history with a genetic counselor over the phone and may be offered an appointment for comprehensive counseling and evaluation.

What Happens at an Appointment?

In an initial appointment, patients consult with a medical geneticist and genetic counselor. This session usually involves clarification of reported medical history, physical examination, and discussion of risk factors-both genetic and environmental. From this assessment, patients and healthcare providers work together to form a tailored healthcare plan. This plan might include appropriate cancer screening-such as mammography for breast cancer or colonoscopy for colon cancer-as well as other risk reduction measures including lifestyle changes, risk-reducing medication (i.e. chemoprevention), and/or preventive surgery such as prophylactic breast removal to reduce breast cancer risk. Patients might also consider available genetic testing and enrollment in available research protocols.

We encourage patients to think through this often complex information and to discuss medical, social, and psychological implications with other family members. Following these discussions and informed consent, some patients elect to pursue genetic testing at a follow-up visit. Test results are discussed at a separate appointment and plans of action are re-evaluated.

Whom Do I Contact if I am Interested?

If you are interested in cancer genetic counseling please contact John Quillin, a genetic counselor at VCU's Massey Cancer Center, at (804) 628-1925.

If you would like to have your cancer genetics services featured in an upcoming issue, please contact Philana Chen at e-mail: pchen1@jhmi.edu or call 410-955-7497.