Awoman's family history for breast cancer includes two paternal aunts who developed breast cancer before age 45. Which genetics professional would be most appropriatefor assistance in helping this patient understand the health risk posed by this family history?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A genetic counselor focuses on direct communication with and counseling of patients and families at potential risk for genetic problems. Even though a clinical geneticist may also provide genetic counseling, his or her primary responsibilities are diagnosing and clinically managing patients with a wide variety of genetic disorders. A medical geneticist has a doctorate (PhD), most commonly in population genetics or epidemiology. These individuals often work along with genetic counselors to provide accurate recurrence risk information for affected families but have little, if any, preparation in counseling. A clinical laboratory geneticist also has minimal, if any, counseling preparation or experience.

Awoman's Family History for Breast Cancer Includes Two Paternal Aunts