As a female genetic counselor, I can say I have counseled many men regarding their risk for hereditary cancer.  I have seen the different reactions and responses they have had. I have looked for different information (from what I provided to females) to give to them, if it will help. I cannot say I have any idea what it is like to be a man going through that process, which is why I am so grateful to have Bill Rotter bringing these issues to the forefront and telling his story, no matter how personal. His most recent post highlighted the parts of our hereditary cancer patient website dedicated to male breast cancer, and how that would have helped him. I truly hope that it makes a difference in at least one man’s life if they find themselves being diagnosed with a hereditary cancer syndrome and having to go through the cancer journey.

There are additional cancer resources for men on our patient website as well. There is a section dedicated to prostate cancer, which provides information about the basics of the disease, in addition to statistics and risk factors. There is a separate section dedicated to hereditary prostate cancer. This discusses the genetics, possible risks for other cancers, and risks to family members. We at Ambry continue to update the information and resources provided on our patient website and encourage you to keep checking back for new sections. 

In addition, our hereditary cancer patient website provides some background on genetics, genetic counseling, and genetic testing for those of you who aren’t as familiar or may feel intimidated by science topics. Having this basic knowledge can be very empowering and allow you to have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider or your loved ones. 

My ultimate hope is that one day no one will need this website and these resources – but the reality is that today they do. So I want you to have the most helpful information and resources to get you through what might be a very difficult time for you and/or your family.  Take care.