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Pancreatic Cancer: Hereditary Cancer

Genetic Counseling at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center

The Ridley-Tree Cancer Center’s Genetic Counseling program offers hereditary cancer risk counseling to help patients and families with a history of cancer better understand and manage the risk for developing cancer through genetic risk assessment and genetic testing. Our Genetic Counselors translate complex genetic information into understandable recommendations for patients, physicians and families. 

Although most cancer is not inherited, approximately 5 – 10% of people with cancer have a hereditary form or a predisposition to cancer. Hereditary cancers occur because of a change (mutation) in certain genes. Inheriting these genetic mutations can increase a person’s risk for certain types of cancer. These genetic changes can be passed down from generation to generation through the mother’s or father’s side of the family.

Many factors must be considered when discussing cancer risk, including personality, coping style, and family experience with cancer. Our goal is to provide confidential information, reassurance, and support to cancer patients and their families.

The Ridley-Tree Cancer Center offers comprehensive genetic counseling and testing services by a certified genetic counselor to patients and families at suspected risk for hereditary cancer. For more information, visit our website or call (805) 879-5653.

Video

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center Community Lectures - Genetic Counseling and Hereditary Cancer

Danielle Sharaga, MS, LCGC discussed how genetic counseling can help patients and families with a history of cancer better understand and manage the risk of developing cancer through genetic risk assessment and genetic testing.

Resources provided by the Cancer Resource Library are for informational purposes only. The information in these materials may or may not apply to your specific condition, and should not be construed as medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult your healthcare provider to review anything you learn through these resources.

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer treatment and support programs for patients and families. We are recognized for medical excellence, a strong clinical research program, and a multidisciplinary approach to cancer prevention.

Cancer Resource Library | 540 West Pueblo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 | (805) 563-5807 | library@ridleytreecc.org | www.ridleytreecc.org