Cancer genetic testing is a specialist assessment that looks for inherited gene changes that may contribute to cancer risk. It helps guide screening, prevention and conversations with family for eligible patients with a personal or family history of cancer. At Clarity Genetics, testing is provided by a specialist clinical geneticist working alongside a genetic counsellor with experience in cancer genetics and follows recognised Australian guidelines, including eviQ.
Most cancers are not caused by an inherited gene change. Around 5 to 10 per cent of cancers have an identifiable inherited component, and for these families, an assessment can help clarify what the family history means and what steps may be reasonable from here.
A specialist assessment is most useful for people whose personal or family history suggests there may be an inherited contribution to cancer in the family. A thorough assessment often provides reassurance rather than a recommendation for testing.
Genetic testing is only one part of the picture. Even where no inherited gene change is identified, or where testing is not the right step, your personal and family history can still play an important role in guiding your care. This information may help your clinician and treating team consider whether earlier or more regular surveillance is appropriate for you, regardless of whether a genetic diagnosis is confirmed.
An appointment may be appropriate where any of the following apply:
Not sure if your family history qualifies? A brief phone enquiry with the practice team can help you decide whether a consultation is the right next step.
Your first appointment focuses on understanding your personal and family medical history in detail. Your clinician will discuss what this may mean for you, and whether genetic testing is likely to add useful information. Appointments are typically 45 to 60 minutes.
Where testing is appropriate, the options and what they can tell you are discussed before any decision is made. No testing is arranged on the day without your informed consent. Familial testing, where a specific gene change is already known in the family, can usually be arranged promptly.
To make the most of your appointment, it helps to gather as much information about your family history as possible beforehand. This may include which relatives have had cancer, the type of cancer, and the age at which they were diagnosed. If you are unsure which information would be helpful to bring, you are welcome to contact Claire before your appointment for guidance.
Clarity Genetics provides assessment for a range of inherited cancer predisposition conditions, including hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome and others. Cancer gene panel testing is available where the family pattern does not point to a single condition. Your clinician will discuss which conditions are most relevant to your personal and family history. BRCA testing in Australia is available through Clarity Genetics, where clinically appropriate.
Clarity Genetics accepts referrals from general practitioners, oncologists, breast and colorectal surgeons, gynaecologists and other specialists. Assessments are eviQ-aligned, and a consultant-to-consultant report is provided following each consultation. Familial testing can usually be arranged promptly where a relevant gene change has been identified in a relative.
Referral templates and the practice referral form are available on request.
Cancer genetics consultations are available in person in Sydney and by telehealth across Australia. A valid referral is required to access Medicare rebates, and eligibility depends on the clinical circumstances.
Telehealth is particularly useful for follow-up appointments, consultations with family members, and patients outside metropolitan Sydney. Where physical examination is clinically indicated, an in-person appointment may be arranged.
