Learn Your Cancer Risk with a CCNW Risk Assessment

Posted: August 29, 2024

 

Cancer Risk Assessments

Every individual’s cancer risk is shaped by a unique blend of factors. However, the current healthcare system often follows a standardized, age-based approach to cancer screening and prevention. This approach may lead to late-stage diagnoses that might have been detected earlier or even prevented with more personalized strategies. A cancer risk assessment is a simple screening tool that can help providers and patients understand their unique cancer risk profile.

 

Cancer Risk Factors:

A cancer risk assessment helps individuals understand their likelihood of developing cancer based on several factors, including:

1. Medical History - Your height, weight, and other medical conditions, including a history of cancer, affects your cancer risk.
2. Family History - Having blood relatives with cancer can increase your cancer risk.
3. Your Ancestry - Your race and ethnicity may play a role in your cancer risk.
4. Reproductive Health - Your reproductive health, such as age of first menstrual period, pregnancy history, and hormone replacement therapy can affect your cancer risk.
5. Cancer Genetics - Inherited genetic mutations play a major role in about 5-10% of all cancers.

 

Why is a Risk Assessment Important?

Knowing one's cancer risk enables proactive measures for early detection and prevention. This can lead to better health outcomes through personalized screening and risk-reducing strategies.

 

Complete Your Risk Assessment:

Learn your cancer risk by completing the CancerIQ Risk Assessment Questionnaire.

 

Next Steps

Based on your cancer risk profile, genetic testing and counseling at Cancer Care Northwest may be recommended. Cancer Care Northwest's Cancer Genetic Risk Assessment (CGRA) Program is led by Jennifer Lazzara, DNP, ARNP, CGRA, a nurse practitioner and certified genetic risk assessment provider.