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Clinical Department
Hereditary CancerClinic
Comprehensive evaluation for individuals and families at risk of hereditary cancers.
Overview about Hereditary Cancers & Hereditary Cancer Clinic
Hereditary cancer means a person may have inherited gene change (mutation) from their parents or developed it spontaneously, which increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer. These gene changes can be passed down from one generation to the next, like eye colour or height. But not all cancers are hereditary; only 5–10% of all cancers are due to inherited gene mutations.
Finding the inherited gene change can help you and your family catch cancer sooner, take steps to lower your risk, and make informed decisions about your health.
The Hereditary Cancer Clinic at Cancer Institute, Adyar offers risk assessment and genetic counselling for individuals and families who may be at higher risk of hereditary cancer.
Message from the In-Charge
Cancer that runs in families can feel frightening — but understanding your genetic risk is one of the most powerful tools we have for prevention and early detection. At the Hereditary Cancer Clinic, we work closely with each patient and their family, combining detailed genetic counselling with advanced testing to build a clear picture of risk and a personalised plan to manage it. Our goal is not just to treat cancer, but to help families stay a step ahead of it — with compassion, clarity, and the full support of our team at every stage.
Who Should Consider an Evaluation?
You or a close relative were diagnosed with cancer before age 50
Two or more relatives on the same side of the family have had cancer
You have had more than one cancer diagnosis
Cancer has occurred in both organs of a pair (for example, both breasts) or in more than one place at once
A rare cancer runs in the family, such as male breast cancer or a cancer of the adrenal gland
A cancer-related gene change has already been identified in your family
Hereditary Cancer Predisposition Syndromes
Preparing for Your Visit
1. What Should You Bring?
Previous cancer-related medical records and reports
Pathology and imaging reports, if available
Previous genetic test reports, if any
Relevant medical records or genetic test reports of affected family members, if available
2. Information to Share With Us
Please be prepared to share:
Your personal history of cancer
Cancer history in your family
Type of cancer and age at diagnosis of affected relatives
Any known genetic condition or genetic variant in the family
Tip: Speaking with family members beforehand can help you gather important family history.
Our Approach
1. Pre-Test Counseling
Pedigree Analysis and Risk Assessment:
We review your personal and family history of cancer and create a detailed family history to assess your hereditary cancer risk. We explain what genetic testing can and cannot tell you, helping you make an informed decision about whether testing is right for you.
Test Selection and Informed Consent:
When appropriate, we discuss the most suitable testing option, which may include testing for a specific known genetic change, a multi-gene panel, or more extensive genetic testing. We explain the benefits, limitations, and possible outcomes of testing before obtaining informed consent.
Your sample is collected and tested at Cancer Biology and Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory
Your sample is collected and tested at Cancer Biology and Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory
Result Interpretation:
We explain your genetic test results and what they mean for you. Based on the results and your individual risk, we discuss appropriate screening, surveillance, and risk-reduction strategies.
Testing for Family Members:
If a genetic change is identified, we guide you through the process of testing eligible family members who may also be at increased risk. Where appropriate, their results can help inform personalized screening and surveillance plans.
Your genetic journey doesn't end with the test, understanding your result is the next important step.
What to Expect
Your first visit: A genetic counselling session where we discuss your personal and family cancer history in detail, talk through whether testing makes sense for you, and answer your questions.
Privacy and confidentiality: Your genetic information is kept strictly confidential.
Support at every step: Whatever your result: positive, negative, or uncertain, our team will help you understand what it means and what your options are.
A Team Approach
Our clinic works closely with specialists in Cancer Biology and Molecular Diagnostics, Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Gynaecological Oncology, Radiation Oncology, and Psycho-Oncology, so your care is coordinated and personal.
Our Team
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a strong family history of cancer. Does that mean I will definitely develop cancer?
No. Having an inherited cancer-associated genetic variant may increase cancer risk, but it does not mean that cancer will definitely develop. Knowing your risk can help with appropriate screening and prevention.
If I test positive, does it affect my family members?
A hereditary cancer-associated genetic variant can be shared among biological relatives. When a clinically significant variant is identified, eligible family members may be offered genetic counselling and cascade testing.
Can genetic counselling help even if I decide not to undergo genetic testing?
Yes. Genetic counselling is not limited to genetic testing. It can help you understand your cancer risk and discuss appropriate screening and prevention options based on your personal and family history.
Does a genetic test result change my cancer screening?
It can. Depending on the result and your personal and family history, your healthcare team may recommend changes to the type, frequency, or starting age of cancer screening.
Take the Next Step
If you or a family member has a personal or family history of cancer, a genetic counselling session can help you understand your risk and explore the right options for your family.