“Genetic testing is helping us move toward more personalized treatment and prevention, and it’s important that patients understand how it can benefit them.”
—Danijela Jelovac, MD
Why is testing genetic risk for cancer important? Genetic testing is a key part of modern breast cancer care, helping identify individuals at higher risk and enabling more personalized treatment and prevention strategies. It is especially useful for detecting hereditary cancer syndromes, such as BRCA mutations, which can increase the risk of both breast and ovarian cancers. It also provides patients and their families with information to make proactive health decisions. While genetic risk does not guarantee cancer will develop, it offers valuable insight for managing and reducing risk.
Virginia Cancer Specialists is renowned for their expertise in genetic testing. “A genetic risk assessment is recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of breast, ovarian, or related cancers, those diagnosed at a younger age, or those with high-risk features,” says Dr. Danijela Jelovac, medical oncologist with Virginia Cancer Specialists. “Because of the overlap between breast and gynecologic cancers, testing can reveal risks affecting multiple areas of health.” Results may guide surgical decisions, influence treatment options, and determine eligibility for targeted therapies. For those without cancer, results can inform screening and preventive strategies to reduce risk. A certified genetic counselor can help determine if testing is appropriate.
At Virginia Cancer Specialists, providers and genetics teams guide patients through every step, from assessing risk to interpreting results. “We ensure patients understand their options and feel supported throughout the process,” says Dr. Jelovac. “Genetic insights can impact care decisions and provide important information not only for our patients but also for their families.”