Cancer Risk Assessment Program

At least 10 percent of cancer cases are caused by hereditary factors. A family history of cancer, particularly if the cancers are diagnosed at young ages or in several relatives, can be an indicator of an inherited risk.    

Program Services

The Paoli Cancer Risk Assessment Program is designed to provide individualized cancer risk assessment services to individuals and families at increased risk of cancer due to family or personal history. These services include:

• Overview of cancer risk factors, including genetics, lifestyle and environmental exposure
• Comprehensive, cancer-specific genetic evaluation, including pedigree analysis and risk calculation
• Discussion of customized risk reduction options and risk-appropriate screening recommendations, including opportunities for research
• Coordination of genetic testing, when appropriate, and interpretation of genetic test results
• Breast self-exam instruction
• Referral resources for follow-up and support

Who Can Participate

Evaluation at the Paoli Cancer Risk Assessment Program is available to any person concerned about cancer risk. Individuals meet with a genetic counselor specialized in cancer genetics and a registered nurse focused on cancer prevention, when indicated. A medical oncologist and outpatient oncology social worker are also part of the team.

Cancer Risk Checklist

Please review this list of questions to see if you might benefit from a consultation:

• Does cancer seem to run in your family?
• Have you or family members been diagnosed with cancer at a young age?
• Have you or people in your family had more than one cancer diagnosis?
• Do any of your relatives have a gene mutation (abnormal gene) that increases cancer risk?
• Are you concerned you might have an increased cancer risk?

If you answered yes to any of the above, or if you have questions about cancer risk and genetic testing, please contact the Paoli Hospital Cancer Risk Assessment Program.

Specialized Programs

The Margaret Dyson Family Risk Assessment Program

This one-of-a-kind program is designed for women with a family history of breast and ovarian cancer. Learn about the risk factors associated with these forms of cancer as well as familial patterns that may be related to their development. more 

Gastrointestinal Cancer Risk Assessment Program

This program is designed to educate men and women about their risk for gastrointestinal cancers (such as colorectal, stomach and pancreatic), screening recommendations and options for prevention. more 

Prostate Cancer Risk Assessment Program

This program is designed to evaluate prostate cancer risk. Participants will gain an understanding about what it means to be at average, moderate or high risk for prostate cancer. With this knowledge, they will be able to make informed decisions about cancer screening, prevention and risk reduction.

Contact Us

For more information on the Paoli Hospital Cancer Risk Assessment Program, or to schedule an appointment, please call 484-565-1664.