Jessica Ordonez, certified genetic counselor and Medical Science Liaison at Myriad Genetics explains genetics' role in breast cancer and how the MyRisk® with RiskScore® tests can help you better understand your 5-year and lifetime risk. You’ll learn what you need to know about different kinds of genetic factors, including the impact of changes in genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2, and others. Uncover the fallacy that you aren’t at risk if you don’t have “the BRCA gene.” We’ll also discuss how a genetic counselor can guide you if your results show a high lifetime risk. If you have a family history of cancer or are simply curious about your genetic health, this episode offers insights into genetic testing, risk factors, and empowering yourself with knowledge.

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Knowing your family's history of cancer is the first step to understanding your own cancer risk and may qualify you for the MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore hereditary cancer test. It's easy, accurate and covered by most insurers. Learn more at GetMyRisk.com, https://myriad.ws/getmyrisk

IN THIS EPISODE:   

• [1:06 ] Jessica describes the role of a genetic counselor and a medical science liaison
• [2:51 ] Discussion of genetic markers and BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes
• [13:41 ] The difference between gene mutations and variants of uncertain significance
• [23:16 ] Explanation of the CHEK2 gene
• [27:11 ] How would a genetic counselor counsel a woman whose genetic test comes back with a high lifetime risk

RESOURCES:

Myriad Genetics Instagram

Get MyRisk Website

GUEST BIOGRAPHY: 

Jessica Ordonez is a certified genetic counselor and Medical Science Liaison at Myriad Genetics. She holds diplomate status with the American Board of Genetic Counseling and is an active member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors and the Florida Association of Genetic Counselors.

Jessica completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Michigan, earning a Bachelor’s in Cell & Molecular Biology and Spanish Literature and a Master’s in Genetic Counseling. With over a decade of experience as a clinical genetic counselor, she has provided care in pediatric, adult, and cancer genetics clinics within academic and private hospital settings, focusing on Spanish-speaking patients.

As a Medical Science Liaison, Jessica educates clinicians across Florida on hereditary cancer and reproductive genetics. She is involved in several company projects at Myriad, specifically leading a needs assessment for patient-facing Spanish resources to enhance inclusiveness and equity in care.

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