 Unity Hospital We understand that everyone's cancer experience is unique. Our experts use the latest technology, innovative treatments and research to meet the needs of each patient and family. Cancer careCancer genetics programsWorried about inheriting cancer or passing it on? Ask your doctor if genetic counseling is right for you. Call 763-236-5600 for more about about genetic counseling at Unity Hospital. A program of: Our cancer genetics program team includes:
Genetic counseling is appropriate if cancer seems to run in your family. The genetic counseling process includes:
Meet Denise, our genetic counselor
Denise Marty came to Unity Hospital with a long-time love of genetics coupled with the desire to help others. Denise did her undergraduate work in biology and psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and received a master's degree in medical genetics from the Genetic Counseling Program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Denise has trained in a number of areas where genetic counseling is utilized to help patients and families, including perinatal and pediatrics. Her favorite field of genetics, however, is oncology. Denise's interaction with patients typically involves two counseling sessions. Before the first appointment, she gathers as much information as possible about the patient and the patient's family history of cancer. "Sometimes," says Denise, "It's like putting together a jigsaw puzzle." The first counseling session with Denise starts with a review of family history and information about genetic testing. "The goal is not for all patients to have genetic testing," says Denise, "but to educate, and give the patient options." When patients choose testing, they are able to have the blood draw that day, or they may schedule it for a future time. In the second session, Denise reviews the test results with the patient, helping them deal with the emotional ramifications of the results. "We know that cancer does not usually run in families," says Denise. "But for some there is a genetic risk factor that is passed down from generation to generation. Our ultimate goal is to help members of these families prevent cancer in themselves and in their children." To make an appointment with Denise, call 763-236-5600. But first ask your primary care physician for a referral. High Risk Breast Cancer ProgramOur genetic counselor, along with Thomas Amatruda, MD, medical oncologist, can help a woman in assess her risk of breast cancer. Following the risk assessment, patients can be referred to an oncologist or to their primary care physician for follow up. We use the Gail and Claus Risk Assessment models to assign risk based on family history, age, number of previous biopsies and other factors. This model is good for evaluating risk in women who do not have a genetic cancer. Our genetic counselor is best prepared to analyze genetic risk. To make an appointment with the High Risk Breast Clinic, call 763-236-5600. But first ask your primary care physician for a referral. |