A Genetic Counsellor, is able to provide information about genetics and inheritance, genetic testing (where appropriate), calculation of an individual’s cancer risk based on their family health history and/or genetic test results and a cancer risk management plan which may include screening, risk reducing medication and/or preventative surgery.

A Genetic Counsellors role is to provide information and support to people and families to:

• to investigate a family health history
• learn about and adjust to the knowledge of being at increased cancer risk
• learn about genetic testing and understand results of testing where performed
• learn about ways to manage an increased cancer risk
• support decision making regarding ways to manage increased cancer risks
• talk about genetic risk information with family members

The Pink Hope video Genetic Counsellor for Breast and Ovarian Cancer covers the role of a Genetic Counsellor.