Services & Specialties

Hereditary Cancer

When Cancer Runs in the Family, Clear Answers Matter

If several people in your family have had cancer, it can raise difficult questions. You may wonder what it means for your own health or for other relatives.

The Hereditary Cancer Program at Cincinnati Children’s helps individuals and families understand inherited cancer risk. Our genetic counselors review your personal and family history, discuss possible genetic testing and explain what the results mean for you. We explain complex genetic information in simple terms and help you understand your options so you can make informed decisions.

Many families come to us because of a strong family history of cancer or a personal cancer diagnosis that may have a genetic cause. Our team evaluates conditions such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome and Lynch syndrome, which can increase the risk for certain cancers.

Genetic Counseling and Hereditary Cancer Risk Evaluation

Care That’s Convenient to Access

We offer in-person visits and telehealth appointments when appropriate. Virtual visits allow families to review family history, discuss testing and understand results without traveling to the hospital.

Personalized Screening and Prevention Plans

Genetic testing can reveal whether a gene change increases cancer risk. When testing is recommended, our team explains the process, helps arrange testing and reviews the results with you.

Your genetic counselor then develops personalized screening and medical recommendations based on your results, personal history and family history. These plans may include earlier or more frequent screening, prevention strategies or guidance you can share with your healthcare providers.

Genetic Testing Guidance from Start to Finish

Understanding genetic testing can feel overwhelming. Our counselors guide you through every step. They help decide whether testing is right for you, coordinate testing and explain results in clear, everyday language.

This process helps families make informed decisions about their health and the health of relatives who may share similar risks.

Experienced Program Serving Hundreds Each Year

The Hereditary Cancer Program supports about 800 patients each year. Many visits occur at Cincinnati Children’s or through telehealth. Others happen through partnerships with regional healthcare systems.

We also collaborate with local oncologists, surgeons, gastroenterologists and endocrinologists who refer patients for hereditary cancer risk evaluation. This partnership ensures patients receive coordinated care and clear screening recommendations.