Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center

What Is the Family Cancer Risk Service?

The Family Cancer Risk Service (FCRS) is an educational consultation service provided by two Master's level nurses, working with other medical specialists. The care provided by nurses with special training, experience, and interest in cancer risk assessment provides a unique resource to the community.

What Does FCRS Offer?

• review of family history and medical history
• education about cancer genetics and cancer risk
• individual and family cancer risk assessments
• review of available genetic testing options for hereditary cancer syndromes and discussion of the risks, benefits and limitations of genetic testing
• coordination and interpretation of genetic testing
• recommendations for cancer screening and cancer risk reduction
• access to clinical trials and research studies for individuals at increased risk for cancer

What are the Benefits of an FCRS Consultation?

By gaining a more accurate estimate of your personal family cancer risk you may:

• increase the chance of early cancer detection through an individualized screening plan.
• become aware, in some cases, of increased risks for more than one type of cancer.
• gather information to make the best decisions about genetic testing for yourself.
• identify family members who may have an increased risk of cancer.
• gain reassurance, in some cases, that you and/or other family members are not at increased risk of cancer and do not need extra cancer screening or procedures.