A genetic consultation is a discussion with a person trained in genetics. A genetic counsellor or consultant will listen to your concerns and advise you on your risk of developing cancer. They can discuss with you whether a genetic test might be appropriate for you and tell you the benefits and limitations of testing. They can also discuss possible ways of managing your risk.
The meeting may last 30-60 minutes. There probably won’t be a physical examination, but you might decide, together with your consultant or counsellor, to see a doctor or specialist nurse or to go for regular screening. Screening means testing to see if there are any abnormalities where there are no symptoms. It can help find a cancer earlier. There are different screening techniques for different types of cancer (see our information about bowel cancer, and breast and ovarian cancer).