Cancer is a complex disease that affects millions of people around the world. It is a leading cause of death, and its prevalence continues to rise each year. Makati Medical Center has taken a significant step forward in the fight against cancer by offering precision oncology cancer genetics testing.
“The important reason to get this test is really to open up treatment options for those who’ve already been diagnosed with cancer and to also aid in prognosis knowing other parts of the body that they may get cancer in,” said Frances Victoria F. Que, MD, one of MakatiMed’s Medical Oncology Specialist and the only one in the Philippines who practices cancer genetics and genomics. “It also helps to identify unaffected carriers. So those family members who may have a risk of getting cancer, we’re also able to screen to know their risk of getting cancer and to give them recommendations to decrease the risk of getting cancer,” Dr. Que added.
This innovative service aims to provide personalized care to high-risk individuals based on their genetic profile. The service is intended for families who have diseases affecting multiple generations, those with specific patterns of malignancies involving several family members, those with more than one primary cancer, and those whose family members develop cancer at a young age. By identifying individuals who are at high risk of developing cancer, MakatiMed can provide early detection and intervention, improving patient outcomes.
To provide this service, MakatiMed has enlisted experts trained in the field of Oncogenetics. These experts will conduct pre-test and post-test counseling. They will work to ensure that patients fully understand the genetic testing process, including the benefits and limitations of the tests, and the potential impact of the results on their healthcare.
Additionally, MakatiMed is working to provide comprehensive genomic analysis and predictive cancer testing for all family members who may want to avail this offering. This is especially beneficial for families with a history of cancer, as it can help identify individuals who are at risk of developing the disease.
Cancer genetics testing is a rapidly advancing field, and MakatiMed’s offering is a testament to its commitment to providing the highest quality healthcare to its patients. The service will be available every Monday, from 9:00 – 11:00 AM, and patients can schedule a genetic counseling session by appointment. For those who wish to inquire about genetic counseling, they may contact Ms. Charmaine Gonzales at 88888-999 local 7102.
