Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program

Cancer Genetics & Prevention

We are changing the story of cancer, one family at a time. Our team helps people understand their cancer risk and take action to reduce its impact.

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Why choose UCSF Health for cancer genetic counseling and testing?

Our Cancer Genetics and Prevention Program is part of UCSF Health's Cancer Risk, Prevention and Early Detection (CRPED) initiative. It is the largest and most comprehensive genetic counseling and testing center for cancer in Northern California. We focus on patient care, education and research to serve the public and health care community.

To date, our program has helped more than 40,000 people understand their risk for cancer, enabling them to get the care and treatment they need. We provide personalized risk-assessment and management recommendations for you and your family, which can lead to better health now and for generations to come.

We've also pioneered research on Lynch syndrome, hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and other conditions that increase the risk for cancer. Our work has led to the development of new techniques to fight colorectal, endometrial, breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic and other cancers.

  • Multispecialty team

    Our team includes genetic counselors, cancer specialists and medical geneticists with expertise in cancer risk assessment.

  • Education and support

    We keep you up to date on our understanding of genes that predispose you to cancer, helping you prevent, detect and treat it as early as possible.

  • Pioneering research

    Our long-term follow-up registry has helped us understand how genes affect the risk for cancer in families and improve prevention strategies.

  • Coordinated care

    Our program gives you streamlined access to all the experts and services you need. Timely, efficient and coordinated care leads to better outcomes.

Understanding hereditary cancer

Cancer develops because of changes in genes. These changes, called mutations, might be due to aging, lifestyle, environmental exposure or other factors. In about 5% to 10% of cancers, genetic changes are inherited (passed down through families). Having an inherited gene mutation doesn't mean you'll get cancer, but it does increase your risk.

You or your relatives may be susceptible to hereditary cancer if you have:

  • A known genetic mutation in the family linked to cancer risk

  • Personal or family history of cancer

  • Early-onset cancer (diagnosed before age 50)

  • Multiple relatives with the same or related cancers

  • Rare cancer types

What to expect

If you're concerned about your or your family's risk for cancer, or you have cancer and want further testing, we can help. Call (415) 885-7779 to get started. A referral may be required depending on your insurance coverage.

Here's what to expect:

  1. Consultation. A care coordinator asks you about your health history and reasons for seeking genetic counseling. We review any past genetic tests you've had and schedule an appointment with a genetic counselor.

  2. Genetic counseling and testing. A genetic counselor evaluates your personal risk factors for cancer and explains the risks and benefits of genetic testing for you and your family. It is always your choice if you wish to proceed with genetic testing. If you do choose to have testing, we coordinate sample collection (blood or saliva) and ensure your results are available to you and your health care team.

  3. Risk-management plan. Based on the results of your test, we make personalized recommendations for you and your family. Preventive measures may include screenings, changes to your lifestyle and diet, or a referral to our specialty clinics for hereditary cancer.

Providers

Excellence in cancer care

Our expertise in cancer care has earned top accolades.

Related services

Related conditions & treatments

  • Conditions
    • Lynch Syndrome
    • Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer
    • Hereditary Colon Cancer
    • Cancer Genomics
  • Treatments
    • Genetic Counseling
    • Genetic Testing
    • Genetic Cancer Risk Assessment
    • Cancer Screening

Accreditations & memberships

  • National Cancer Institute

    National Cancer InstituteOpens in a new window

    The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF Health a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.
  • Commission on Cancer

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    UCSF Health's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.
  • National Comprehensive Cancer Network

    National Comprehensive Cancer NetworkOpens in a new window

    UCSF is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world's top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.

Research initiatives

Hereditary Cancer Risk Calculator

To help patients determine if genetic testing is right for them, UCSF cancer experts developed a tool for patients to assess their hereditary cancer risk.
Calculate your risk

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UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center

Our renowned Cancer Center is home to top experts, advanced treatments and groundbreaking research. Get all the care you need, from minimally invasive surgery and targeted therapy to comprehensive support services.
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Cancer risk in children

We offer genetic counseling and testing for children up to age 18 and their families.
Pediatric Cancer Genetics & Prevention Program