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Mercy Clinic Oncology - Fort Smith
Mercy Clinic Oncology – Fort Smith specializes in diagnosing and treating patients with cancer, and blood disorders like anemia and bleeding or clotting problems. We provide a full range of chemotherapy and immunotherapy services, as well as patient care and family support.
Mercy's board-certified oncologists work closely with the patient's primary care physician and other specialists to develop individualized treatment plans and coordinate all aspects of the patient's care.
Genetic Risk Assessment and Testing for Cancer
A genetic risk assessment and testing can determine if you may be at an increased risk for developing many different types of cancers. Mutations in genes can predispose you for colorectal, uterine, thyroid, stomach and many other types of cancer. Because each gene causes an increased risk for different groups of cancer, it’s important that genetic testing is done on the appropriate gene(s) based on your personal and family history.
Genetic testing can be beneficial to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. However, certain events in your family history suggest a higher risk for inheriting cancer. We may recommend genetic testing if:
- You have a family member on either parent’s side diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50.
- Your family member was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at any age.
- Your male family member had breast cancer.
- You or a family member had two or more breast cancers, with one diagnosed before age 50.
- You’ve had breast cancer in both breasts or more than one within the same breast.
- You or a family member have been diagnosed with breast and another type of cancer such as ovarian, thyroid, or uterine cancer.
- You have a previously identified BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation in your family.
Most insurance companies will cover the cost of genetic testing if you meet the test criteria. If you don’t have insurance coverage, programs are available to help.
