Genetic testing for cancer predisposition genes
A genetic test for cancer predisposition is a blood test that shows whether an individual has inherited a gene mutation that increases the risk for certain cancers. Individuals with a personal or family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer may see a genetic counsellor to discuss cancer risks and clarify eligibility for genetic testing.
Genetic counselling and testing is paid for by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
Genetic counselling
Genetic counselling is an assessment of cancer risk based on personal and family medical history. Genetic counselling can provide information to help individuals manage their risk for cancer, whether or not they have genetic testing. It also determines a person’s eligibility for a blood test for genetic testing to determine cancer predisposition, and helps the genetic team advise on the proper screening and preventive methods for each individual.
Where to go for genetic testing and counselling
Familial cancer clinics are part of the Predictive Cancer Genetics Program funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. These sites are also Ontario Cancer Genetics Network performance sites and may be able to offer enrollment into the OCGN research program for those who are interested in contributing information or a blood sample for research.
Individuals can go to these clinics to understand more about their personal or family history of cancer and what steps they may take to ensure that they are doing everything possible to decrease their risk or undergo the appropriate screening. At these clinics, individuals who qualify are also offered genetic testing for cancer predisposition through the Ministry’s clinical service program.
Cancer Care Ontario
620 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2L7
416-971-9800
Credit Valley Hospital
2200 Eglinton Avenue West, Mississauga, Ontario L5M 2N1
905-813-4104
Juravinski Cancer Centre
699 Concession Street, Hamilton, Ontario L8V 5C2
905-387-9711 x65922
Regional Cancer Centre of Southeastern Ontario
25 King Street West, Kingston, Ontario K7L 5P9
613-544-2631 x2800
London Regional Cancer Program
790 Commissioners Road East, London, Ontario N6A 4L6
519-685-8300 x53252
Mount Sinai Hospital
600 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X5
416-586-3244
North York General Hospital
4001 Leslie Street, North York, Ontario M2K 1E1
416-756-6345
Genetic Counselling Services
Hôpital regional de Sudbury Regional Hospital
865 Regent Street South, Sudbury, Ontario P3E 3Y9
705-675-4786
Regional Cancer Care - Northwest
290 Munro Street, Thunder Bay, Ontario P7A 7T1
705-267-1181
Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre
501 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8L6
613-737-7600
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
The Centre for Research in Women’s Health
790 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1N8
416-351-3765
Odette Cancer Centre
2075 Bayview Avenue, North York, Ontario M4N 3M5
416-480-6944
Familial Oncology Program
Lakeridge Health Oshawa
1 Hospital Court, Oshawa, ON L1G 2B9
905-576-8711
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