Welcome to the Hereditary Cancer Clinic at the Anschutz Medical Campus

Evaluating Family History for Cancer Risk

The Hereditary Cancer Clinic sees people who have a higher-than-average risk of cancer because of their family history. Our team evaluates patients' risks and teaches them about cancer warning signs, the importance of regular screenings, and lifestyle changes that can reduce their risk.  They also help patients decide whether to be tested for genes linked to certain cancers, such as breast, colon, and ovarian.

In addition, patients may benefit from research and/or genetic cancer registries looking at the genetic causes of cancer conducted by the University of Colorado Cancer Center.

Does Cancer Run in Your Family?

Many cancers can be treated
successfully if detected early.

One in three people will develop cancer at some point in their lives.

Scientists are still learning what causes cancer; however, we do know that both environmental and inherited factors play a role. Families at risk for hereditary cancer often have members who are diagnosed younger than age 50 and/or have multiple family members that have had cancer.  These families should be seen by a genetic counselor for review of their family's cancer history. 

The good news is that many cancers, if detected early, can be successfully treated. Some cancers are preventable with regular screening.

Hereditary Cancer Checklist

If one or more of the following situations applies to you or your immediate family, please consider making an appointment with the Hereditary Cancer Clinic:

• You were diagnosed with breast cancer before age 40 or colon cancer before age 50.
• Same type of cancer diagnosed in two or more relatives (especially if diagnosed under the age of 50).
• Two or more relatives diagnosed with related cancers:
  – Colon and Endometrial (uterus)
  – Breast and Ovarian
• Many relatives in your family have had cancer (especially if they were young at diagnosis)
• You or a relative has had a rare cancer.
• You or a relative has had more than one type of cancer.

Cancer Risk Assessments

Contact us

Call (720) 848-1030 to request an appointment

A cancer risk assessment can help determine if the pattern of cancer in your family is hereditary. Assessments are done by genetic counselors (experts in genetics and cancer).

Determining if an individual has hereditary cancer is a complex process. It may involve a review of your cancer history and/or your family history of cancer. Based on this information, genetic testing may or may not be recommended.

The testing process is different for every individual. By scheduling a cancer risk assessment you are just agreeing to gain more information and learn if genetic testing is appropriate for you.

How to Make an Appointment

Talk to your physician about getting a referral to the University of Colorado Hereditary Cancer Clinic.

To schedule an appointment, call (720) 848-1030.

Insurance and billing. The University of Colorado Cancer Center accepts most health insurance plans, and insurance companies can be billed directly. If you choose not to go through your insurance company, payment is required at the time of service.  The clinic accepts cash, checks and most major credit cards. 

Our Location

The Hereditary Cancer Clinic is located within the Breast Center at the Anschutz Outpatient Pavilion, at 1635 Aurora Court (formerly N. Ursula Street) in Aurora. Free parking is available.

Go to our maps page for more information.