How testing works
A blood or saliva sample is analyzed. Results are interpreted in the context of your medical and family history.
Genetic Testing Boise
Invitae Hereditary Cancer Testing
Genetic testing can help clarify whether an inherited gene change may be contributing to cancer risk for you or your family.
Family cancer risk assessmentBoise · Idaho · Treasure Valley
Patient education
What Invitae genetic testing is
Invitae, now part of Labcorp, offers clinical genetic tests that analyze selected genes for changes associated with inherited health risks. Hereditary cancer testing may use a focused test or a multi-gene panel based on personal and family history.
Potential benefits
Results may guide screening, prevention, treatment discussions, and testing decisions for relatives.
Important limitations
Testing may find uncertain results, cannot identify every risk, and does not replace routine cancer screening.
Who may consider testing
Common reasons for evaluation
- Cancer diagnosed at an unusually young age
- Multiple relatives with the same or related cancers
- Multiple primary cancers in one person
- Rare cancers or known familial gene variants
- Personal or family history suggesting an inherited syndrome
Common syndromes
Examples of hereditary cancer risk
- Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer involving BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Lynch syndrome
- Familial adenomatous polyposis
- Hereditary melanoma and other less common syndromes
Planning and support
Genetic counseling, insurance, and billing
Genetic counseling can help patients understand whether testing is appropriate, select a test, interpret results, and consider the implications for relatives. Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket cost vary by plan and medical criteria. Ask for current laboratory billing options and financial assistance before testing.
A result should be reviewed with a qualified clinician or genetic counselor before making medical decisions.
Common questions
Genetic testing FAQ
What does hereditary cancer testing look for?
It looks for inherited gene changes that may increase the risk of certain cancers.
Does a positive result mean I have cancer?
No. A positive inherited-risk result may indicate increased risk and can guide screening, prevention, and family discussions.
Can testing find every inherited cancer risk?
No. Testing has limitations, and a negative result does not eliminate all cancer risk.
Will insurance cover testing?
Coverage and patient cost vary. The testing laboratory can provide current billing and financial assistance information.
Discuss your family cancer history
Contact Dr. Gay’s office to ask whether hereditary cancer testing or referral for genetic counseling may be appropriate.