The Family Risk Program/Medical Genetics 10 Union Square East, 4th Floor New York, NY 10003 (212) 420-4179 The Family Risk Program was created to better serve women who are at increased risk for developing breast and/or ovarian cancer. A family history of breast and ovarian cancer has long been known as a strong risk factor for the development of these cancers. This has been confirmed by recent discoveries of genes that, when altered, can significantly increase one's risk to develop breast and ovarian cancer. Often, individuals are confused about their genetic risks. They want to know if they are at increased risk, what steps they can take to reduce risks, and whether they are candidates for genetic testing. The Family Risk Program is both a clinical surveillance and educational program so that women concerned about their family histories of breast and ovarian cancer can receive appropriate surveillance, education and genetic counseling. Who may benefit from the Family Risk Program? • women with two or more relatives with breast or ovarian cancer • women with relatives who developed breast (male or female) or ovarian cancer before age 50 • women with cancer in both breasts • women with family histories of breast and ovarian cancer • women concerned about their personal risk to develop breast or ovarian cancer How Does the Family Risk Program Work? Step 1 — Risk Assessment Questionnaire and Reading Material Interested individuals who call the Family Risk Program will speak to the program assistant. The program assistant can answer any questions you may have about the program and will send you a packet containing the following information: • A Comprehensive Risk Assessment Questionnaire—designed to provide detailed information about your family and medical histories and environmental risk factors. Please take the time to ask family members about as many of your relatives as possible. An accurate picture of your history is an essential first step in a complete risk assessment. • Educational material about genetics and breast and ovarian cancer Step 2 — Completed Risk Assessment Questionnaire The information you provide on the Risk Assessment Questionnaire will be entered into a confidential database and will be used to analyze your risk and create a family pedigree (a picture of your family history). Once your completed questionnaire is received, the program assistant will contact you to set up your first appointment. The Family Risk Program Phillips Ambulatory Care Center 10 Union Square East, 4th Floor New York, NY 10003 (212) 420-4179 Back to Top