Michelle Springer, MS, CGC - CGA-IGC Communications Committee
Hereditary Cancer Awareness Week is a time to bring attention to the genetic factors that increase cancer risk. It is also a time to honor and celebrate previvors – those individuals who have not been diagnosed with cancer but are at an increased risk due to an inherited predisposition.
Each previvor’s journey is often unique, as they navigate increased cancer screenings, lifestyle changes and even preventative surgeries to mitigate their risk. Their choices reflect resilience in the face of uncertainty. National Previvor Day is a celebration of strength and courage, and reshaping the conversation around cancer to one of empowerment and prevention.
"No one is ever fully prepared to hear that they carry a hereditary cancer mutation. But, once you have time to process the information, you realize that that test result is actually the gift of knowledge. It's the ability to know what your cancer risks are and to be more proactive and preventative to help minimize those risks. Knowledge IS power, and, as a genetic counselor and a previvor, I will continue to do whatever I can to increase education and awareness surrounding the power of genetic testing and advocacy." Michelle Springer, MS, CGC, Previvor and Genetic Counselor
The Impact of Genetic Testing
With increased accessibility to genetic testing, more individuals are pursuing genetic testing to better understand if they carry an inherited predisposition to cancer. Some individuals may know that there is a genetic mutation that runs in the family, while others may be the first person testing due to a family history of cancer. Although the motivation behind testing may vary among individuals, the impact is universal: Genetic testing has the potential to provide crucial insight into one’s cancer risks, informing prevention strategies and treatment decisions.
Informed Decision-Making: Knowing one’s genetic risks allows individuals to make educated choices about their health, including lifestyle changes, enhanced screenings, or preventive surgeries.
Family Awareness and Cascade Testing: Genetic information is unique in that it has implications for the family and other individuals who may also be at risk. Cascade testing is central to the preventive efforts honored on Previvor Day. It ensures that families are fully informed of their hereditary cancer risks and allows for a family-wide approach to cancer prevention.
Emotional Empowerment: Understanding genetic risks can help previvors feel empowered in their decision-making and their ability to take control of their health.
Genetic Counseling Access: Promoting access to genetic counseling services is critical. Counselors help individuals interpret their genetic testing results, assess their risk, and make informed decisions about their healthcare.
The Power of Advocacy
Advocacy on Previvor Day is crucial for several reasons, as it highlights the unique challenges faced by individuals at a higher risk for cancer. Advocacy around Previvor Day focuses on:
Raising Awareness: Educating the public about hereditary cancer risks, encouraging genetic testing, and promoting early interventions.
Providing Support: Connecting previvors with support networks and healthcare professionals who specialize in hereditary cancer prevention.
Insurance and Healthcare Access: Advocating for increased access to genetic testing, preventive surgeries, and surveillance to help previvors manage their health risks.
Reducing Stigma: Destigmatizing and normalizing conversations about genetic risks. Encourage open dialogue about health, family history, and preventative measures.
Highlighting Disparities: Emphasizing the need for equal access to genetic counseling and testing, particularly for individuals in underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to take preventive action.
By raising awareness and fostering community support, we can honor the courage and strength of previvors and work towards a future where prevention and informed choices lead the way in cancer care!
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