Hereditary Breast Cancer Genetic Access Project (HBC-GAP)

Hundreds of women and men in Southern Nevada will become breast cancer patients every year. Our goal is to prevent breast cancer, but how do we know who will get this disease? Through genetic counseling and testing, we can identify women and men who have the highest risk of breast cancer. Just like we inherit blue eyes from mom or curly hair from dad, we may also inherit genetic changes that predispose us to breast cancer. 5-10% of all women with breast cancer are born with a change, or mutation, in a "cancer gene". Up to 87% of women and 6% of men who are born with these mutations will have breast cancer in their lifetimes. Most major cancer organizations have determined that genetic counseling and testing is necessary for specific high-risk patients. Unfortunately, access to cancer genetic services in Southern Nevada is limited and the cost of genetic counseling and testing is unaffordable for many. The Genetics for Life Foundation requests funding to provide financial assistance for genetic counseling and testing for high-risk, underinsured patients. Testing this group of patients allows for improved screening, medical and surgical options, preventing breast cancer in many and improving patient outcomes in all.