As a genetic counselor at Cone Cancer Center for the last twelve years, Karen Powell, CGC, enjoys helping patients understand their cancer risks. Hereditary cancer testing may provide important and possibly life-saving information for not only the patient but their family members as well. Many patients present with a family history of cancer,…
Unlocking the mysteries of the genome is our life’s work. Since the launch of our first clinical genomic test for identifying the genetic cause of rare diseases, we’ve sought ways to leverage our technology and expertise to support clinicians and the patients and families they serve. As genomic technologies improve, we gain new tools that…
Launching November 12, 2024 At Ambry, we understand the critical role genetic testing plays in tailored cancer treatment and proactive care. With our enhanced menu, you can deliver the clinical insights your patients need, backed by the exceptional support and patient access you expect from Ambry. Evidence-Informed and Comprehensive…
In honor of Patient Advocacy Day, Ambry connected with a genetic counselor and one of her former patients to find out how genetic testing made a difference for his healthcare and inspired him to advocate for other patients. Ofri Leitner, MS, LCGC, is a genetic counselor who currently manages the Oncology Genetics Program at UNC Rex Cancer Center…
In the field of genetic counseling and testing, the stories of patients and the healthcare professionals who guide them through their journeys are as compelling as they are educational. Recently, I had the privilege of working with Alyssa Valentine, MS, CGC, a senior genetic counselor at Cook County Health in Chicago, Illinois. In her role in a…
One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is driving the creation of a successful high-risk breast program in a large community-based health system. I am often asked how we did it. For advice on getting started, check out the first blog in this series. If you have already implemented a high-risk breast program, congratulations! It’s time…
In the ever-evolving field of genetics, understanding the relationship between genes and diseases is crucial for improving patient care. Gene-Disease Validity (GDV) scoring plays a pivotal role in this process, helping genetic counselors and healthcare professionals assess genetic risks and enhance medical management. As GDV scoring techniques…
Breast cancer remains the number one most common cancer among women in the United States, and the number two leading cause of cancer deaths among women.1 Approximately 20% of all breast cancer cases are associated with a family history of breast cancer, and approximately 10% are hereditary (due to pathogenic variant or mutation in a gene).2,3…
As part of working together on a recent EducateNext webinar, I had the privilege of reconnecting with my colleague and mentor, Ellen Macnamara, ScM, CGC. Mrs. Macnamara is a genetic counselor with the National Institutes of Health Undiagnosed Diseases Program. Brad: Hi Ellen. We’re excited to host you for a webinar. Can you tell us more about…
Germline variants in POT1 have been implicated in predisposition to melanoma, sarcoma and glioma. However, these tumor associations have been derived from very small studies, or those with cohorts highly ascertained for specific cancers. In our recent study in Genetics and Medicine regarding POT1 tumor predisposition syndrome, Ambry set out to…