The ETMC Cancer Institute will host Cancer, Genetics and You, a luncheon addressing what every woman should know about how genetics is changing cancer detection, on Tuesday, Sept. 12, at the CrossWalk Conference Center, located on the campus of Green Acres Baptist Church.

The event will feature keynote speaker Damini Desai Morah, MS, CGC, a genetic counselor and specialist from Myriad Genetics.

Science now identifies cancer as a genetic disease, meaning that cancer is caused by certain changes to genes that control the way our cells grow and divide, said Dianne Adelfio, vice president of the ETMC Cancer Institute. The speaker will discuss how your genetic makeup can affect your likelihood of developing cancers specific to women, as well as other cancers.

Attendees will be given a cancer genetic questionnaire to see if they should consider future testing. Cancer physicians and genetic specialists also will be on hand to answer questions.

Since 2015 the ETMC Breast Care Center has offered forms of genetic testing that involve taking a sample of blood or cheek mucosa to analyze a womans genes. The results can help women with breast cancer make treatment decisions, and alert them to risks of developing other cancers. Genetic testing for those who have not had cancer provides a better understanding of their own cancer risks including risks that can impact other family members.

Genetics is leading the way in medical advancements in cancer detection and targeted treatment, said Adelfio. This luncheon is designed to inform and inspire women to be healthcare advocates as they understand more about how the genetic code is providing a deeper understanding of cancer and helping save lives.

Tickets for the event are $20 per person or a table of eight for $150. Doors open at 11 a.m., with the program taking place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reservations are required and may be made online at etmc.org or by calling 903-535-6302.

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ETMC Cancer Institute to host women's luncheon Sept. 12 - Jacksonville Daily Progress