Inherited Cancer Risk and Tumor Testing
Cancer genetic testing can answer different questions. Inherited-risk testing usually uses blood or saliva to look for gene changes passed through a family. It can help assess a person’s risk of certain cancers; it does not diagnose cancer or find every cause of cancer risk.
Tumor biomarker testing examines features of an existing cancer that may help an oncology team choose treatment. It is a different use of testing. Some inherited results also matter for treatment, but a saliva risk panel is not a substitute for the cancer-specific tests your oncologist recommends.
Discuss the Reason for Testing
Before testing, ask a clinician or genetic counselor which question the test would answer, why it is appropriate for your personal and family history, and how each possible result could change your care. Bring known cancer diagnoses in the family and any available laboratory reports.
What an Inherited-Risk Result Can Tell You
A harmful inherited gene change may increase the risk of particular cancers and may affect screening or prevention discussions for you and your relatives. A negative result does not eliminate cancer risk. Some results are uncertain and do not provide a clear medical next step. Ask the ordering clinician to explain your actual laboratory report before changing screening or treatment.
Questions Before Agreeing to a Test
- Is this inherited-risk testing, tumor testing, or another test?
- What can a positive, negative or uncertain result mean for me?
- Would the result change an existing screening or treatment plan?
- Who will explain the result and arrange any follow-up?
- What is the exact test, laboratory, expected cost and result time?
Sample Collection and Follow-Up
The sample and preparation depend on the test. Follow the instructions from the ordering provider and laboratory. Confirm where collection will take place, whether an appointment is needed and how the result will reach both you and the treating clinician.
Arrange a results discussion before testing if possible. Ask whom to contact if the report is delayed or a follow-up recommendation is unclear. The laboratory’s own information should identify the genes included and the test’s limitations.
Insurance and Privacy Questions
Coverage depends on the exact test, the reason it is ordered and your insurance rules. Ask the ordering office and insurer to confirm coverage, prior authorization, laboratory participation and your possible cost before sending a sample. A family history of cancer alone should not be treated as a promise that any requested panel will be covered.
Before agreeing to testing, ask how the provider and laboratory will use, store and share the sample and report. Read the consent and privacy information, and ask about anything you do not understand.
Planning Your Next Step
Start with your treating clinician or a qualified genetics professional to decide whether testing is appropriate. Use this page’s contact options to ask what practical support is available for your situation. Confirm the actual provider, appointment and payment arrangements before proceeding.
This guide is general information and does not replace medical advice, a cancer diagnosis or a personalized screening plan.
Sources for Testing and Cost Questions
- NCI: genetic testing for inherited cancer risk
- NCI: biomarker testing for cancer treatment
- NCI: managing cancer costs
Learn More About Cancer Genomics Testing
Get more information about Cancer Genomics Testing and connect with related services:
- Browse all senior services
- Join our team
- California Medi-Cal (external)
- California Department of Aging (external)
