Genetic Risk Evaluation & Testing Program (GREAT)

Experts In Cancer-Risk Reduction

Compass Oncology’s groundbreaking Genetic Risk Evaluation and Testing (GREAT) program is a leader in personalized cancer-risk reduction. Our goal is to guide you through the often confusing process of deciding if genetic testing is appropriate and help you determine if you have a genetic mutation that puts you at risk for cancer.

Our team includes physicians and nurses with advanced expertise in cancer genetics and genetic counseling. They have the experience to evaluate family history, provide knowledgeable guidance about cancer detection and prevention, and interpret the results of testing. Learn more about how genetic testing can help detect cancer earlier for people at a higher risk of developing cancer.

Meet Our Genetic Counselours

Clark_Lisa_genetic counselor at compass

Lisa Clark, FNP, AOCNP, APNG
Lisa's experience with women coping with ovarian cancer inspired her interest in genetic research and cancer prevention. She has advanced certifications as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), an Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP), and an Advanced Practice Nurse in Genetics (APNG).

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Becky Clark, MS, CGC
Becky completed her Master of Science degree in Genetic Counseling at the University of Michigan. She believes the most important aspect of genetic counseling is to provide patients with support and education so they can make informed decisions in their healthcare.

Known Genetic Mutations

Scientists have been able to identify several specific inherited mutations that can lead to cancer. The Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) syndrome caused by mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes is probably the best known. Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colon Cancer (HNPCC), or Lynch syndrome, comprises colon cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. Other types of cancer caused by inherited gene mutations include kidney cancer, melanoma, brain tumors, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid cancer.

Our knowledge of inherited gene mutations that can lead to cancer is growing rapidly, thanks to research and new panel-based genetic testing. Compass Oncology was an early adopter of this exciting technology which allows us to look at a large set of genes in a single test. As a result, we are redefining syndromes and discovering more connections between cancers. We know certain mutations can be responsible for multiple types of cancer. We have new risk models we can explore and in certain instances, knowing exactly what mutations are present can influence therapy.

Find out if you're genetically at risk for these cancers.

Important Signs

  • Cancer that is present in multiple generations
  • Cancer that occurs at a younger age than expected
  • Multiple cancers in the same person

The Facts

  • Individuals who have inherited gene mutations may be at a higher risk for more than one type of cancer
  • Hereditary gene mutations can be passed on to children by both the father and the mother
  • Proven screening is the first step to preventing cancer
  • Lifestyle alterations, medication, and preventive surgery can reduce your risk for developing hereditary cancer

To set up a personalized genetic risk evaluation with one of our genetic counselors, call 971.708.7600.