Genetic testing can help identify changes in the genes you were born with (germline testing) or detect mutations within a tumor (somatic testing). At IMP, our PrecisionGU panel focuses on specific germline mutations that are known to be associated with prostate cancer.

Personalized, precision medicine uses your genetic code to guide healthcare decisions tailored to you. Understanding your genetic information can provide valuable insights into your health risks and help you take proactive steps for early detection and treatment.

DR. KATHLEEN L. LATINO

AUCNY is proud to be a pioneer in providing guideline-based genetic testing for cancer patients.

Genetic testing may help:

  • Explain your personal and/or family history of cancer
  • Guide your doctor in making informed decisions about treatment and monitoring
  • Clarify your risk for developing other cancers and determine additional screening options
  • Identify family members who may also benefit from genetic testing

Testing may be recommended if you or a close relative have:

  • A cancer diagnosis at an early age (for example, breast cancer before age 50)
  • Ovarian, pancreatic, or aggressive/advanced prostate cancer
  • Multiple relatives on the same side of the family with the same or related cancers (breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, colorectal, uterine, or stomach)
  • Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry
  • A relative who tested positive for a gene change (mutation) associated with increased cancer risk

Genetic testing is simple and minimally invasive. A small blood sample is collected at your AUCNY doctor’s office and sent to our lab for analysis.

There are three possible outcomes:

Positive:

  • A gene mutation was found that may increase your risk for certain cancers
  • May influence treatment decisions and prognosis
  • There is a 50% chance that siblings or children inherited the same mutation; further testing can clarify their risk

Negative:

  • No mutations were found in the tested genes
  • Your cancer risk may still be influenced by other factors, such as personal or family medical history

Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS):

  • A change was detected in one or more genes, but there isn’t enough information to know if it increases cancer risk
  • This result should not be used to guide medical care

The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) protects you from discrimination based on your genetic information for employment and health insurance:

  • Your health insurance coverage or rates cannot change based on genetic test results
  • Your eligibility for new health coverage cannot be denied due to genetic test results

Note: GINA does not cover life insurance, long-term care insurance, or disability insurance. Consider these policies before pursuing testing.

At AUCNY, we take your privacy seriously and are committed to keeping your genetic information secure.

Most insurance plans cover genetic testing, either through our lab or a partner commercial lab. If you prefer, private-pay options are also available.

precisionGU genetic testing

Available for AUCNY Patients

Take control of your health—schedule a genetic risk assessment today.

If you have a personal or family history of cancer, our specialists can help determine your risk and guide you through personalized screening and prevention options.

Take control of your health—schedule a genetic risk assessment today.

If you have a personal or family history of cancer, our specialists can help determine your risk and guide you through personalized screening and prevention options.