Genetic Screening and Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer » Precision Medicine Program » UF Health

Does breast or ovarian cancer run in your family?

In the United States, breast cancer affects over 250,000 women each year while ovarian cancer affects over 20,000 women each year.¹ Some women may inherit genes that increase their risk for these cancers. When this happens, women have a condition called hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.

Madani Sims, M.D. — Shireen Madani, M.D.

Genetic screening and testing is now available through your doctor

Dr. Madani, M.D., at UF Health now offers genetic screening and testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer as part of your annual wellness visit.

How do you receive genetic screening and testing?

If you are interested in genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, please provide your family cancer history by:

Clicking on the link you received in a phone text from UF Health or through your MyChart inbox
Answering the questions.

Dr. Madani or a member of her team will review your answers. If the screening results show that you could be at risk for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, she may refer you for genetic counseling and genetic testing (both can take place during your wellness visit).

What happens during genetic testing?

If you choose genetic testing, you will provide a blood or saliva sample during your yearly wellness visit with Dr. Madani. The sample will be checked for changes in genes that could increase risk for breast and ovarian cancer.

What happens if you have changes in one of these genes?

If you have changes in one of these genes, you may need to see a specialist. This doctor will talk about ways to reduce your cancer risk, such as:

Extra cancer screening
Medication
Surgery

How much does the test cost?

Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the test.
Without insurance, the cost of the test is $250. Patients are eligible for financial assistance if their out-of-pocket cost is more than $100.

News

mar 24, 2021

Genetic testing for hereditary breast, ovarian cancer risks now part of routine care at UF Health

UF Health recently began offering genetic screenings to gynecology patients as part of their annual exams. The screenings are a way to identify patients who may have a heightened risk of breast and ovarian cancers.