Genetic Testing and Prostate Cancer

Genetic testing is a way to identify differences or changes, also known as mutations, in your DNA. The results of genetic testing can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about your health and treatment. In prostate cancer, genetic tests can be performed to see if there are changes in the DNA of the patient, as well as in their tumour. Knowing your mutation status can: Help you and your doctor make informed treatment decisions, give some clarity to the course your disease may take, and help your family and relatives understand their risk for certain cancers.

Resource Type
Prostate Cancer and BRCA – What do I need to know?
BRCAinBC
BRCA in BC’s brochure expands on how to find support, some fast facts about BRCA, as well as how and why to test for this biomarker.
Hereditary Cancer and Genetic Testing
MyHealth.Alberta.ca
This video describes hereditary cancer in general and how genetic tests can help identify these.
Genetic Testing for Hereditary Cancer: Breast/Ovarian/Prostate Cancer Panel
MyHealth.Alberta.ca
This covers the topic of hereditary cancer, what is included in a breast/ovarian/prostate cancer panel, an explanation of how hereditary cancers are passed down in families, genetic testing & life insurance, as well as deciding whether to do a genetic test.
Introduction to Hereditary Cancer
Jewels in Genetics
The attached Youtube video made by a board certified genetic counsellor introduces the topic of hereditary cancers, the role of a genetic counsellor, how family history comes into play, insurance discrimination, and other related information.
Why Men Should Consider BRCA Gene Testing
Health Link
A news report including a patient story of their experience with prostate cancer caused by the BRCA gene and how genetic testing impacted them.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 in Men
Basser Center for BRCA
This fact sheet covers what it means for a man to have a hereditary BRCA 1 or 2 biomarker identified, the recommended screenings that follow, etc.
Prostate Cancer Genetics Podcast
Prostate Cancer Genetics Podcast
Discusses genetic counselling, testing, and the impact of genetics in prostate cancer for patients and families. Includes special guest appearances such as physicians, genetic counsellors, patients and families. *U.S. source insurance and screening information will vary in other countries
Discover Essential Resources on BRCA Mutations for Men
BRCA Research & Cure Alliance
A resource hub for men with the BRCA mutation including an FAQ Fast Facts section, Knowledge Center with detailed resources and other tools.
Genetic Testing: Your Questions Answered
Canadian Association of Genetic Counsellors
Helps familiarize patients with some key terms when it comes to genetics, including genes, hereditary cancers, genetic counsellors, genetic testing, as well as what this means for insurance. 
Multi-Cancer Panel: Genes and Associated Cancers
LifeLabs Genetics
At this link you will find a table outlining the connection between certain biomarkers and various associated cancers.
Hereditary Cancer Patient Brochure
LifeLabs Genetics
This brochure covers information on accessing genetic testing for hereditary cancer, such as which cancer types are included in hereditary panel tests and who meets the criteria for genetic testing.
Hereditary Prostate Cancer
FORCE
Provides information about prostate cancer screening, biomarkers, what to do after testing, genetic counselors, treatment, and much more.
Myth Busters: Prostate Cancer and Genetic Testing
Healthwise Creative
There are many misconceptions on the topic of genetics and prostate cancer; this handout serves to fact-check them.
Quick Reference Guide to Talking to Your Doctor or Genetic Counsellor About Genetic Testing
Healthwise Creative
This resource was designed to help guide patients through conversations with their doctor or genetic counsellor about genetic testing; it includes questions to ask and useful terms to know.
About Genetic Mutations and Cancer
Healthwise Creative
This one-pager explains many of the medical terms associated with genetic testing.
What are the Risks with Hereditary (Germline) BRCA Mutations?
Healthwise Creative
If a biomarker known to be associated with a certain cancer type is discovered during a genetic test, there are varying levels of cancer risk depending on the identity of the biomarker. The different levels of risk tied to each are outlined in this handout.
About Genetic Testing
Healthwise Creative
This handout explains what genetic testing is, what type of healthcare professionals assist in the process, and what testing might look like for a person with cancer or their family members.
BRCA Gene Changes: Cancer Risk and Genetic Testing Fact Sheet
National Cancer Institute
The National Cancer Institute has put together a page with ten key questions and answers about the implications of the BRCA gene/biomarker in cancer and genetic testing. *U.S. source insurance information will vary in other countries
Genetic Testing Resources
Basser Centre for BRCA
Scroll down to see a chart outlining genes associated with various cancers and syndromes.
TARGET: A Genetic Education Webtool
BRCA Research & Cure Alliance
A self guided educational tool comprised of 9 modules to help make informed decisions about prostate cancer genetic testing. *U.S. source insurance information will vary in other countries
Genetic Testing for Prostate Cancer
Healthwise Creative
This website includes information such as an overview and significance of genetic testing for prostate cancer, types and prevalence of mutations, types of genetic tests, understanding your test results, and frequently asked questions.
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