If your family has a history of heart disease, you might consider genetic counseling to learn about your risk for developing the disease too. Genetic counseling reveals the potential for cardiovascular disease, giving you and your healthcare providers practical information to plan a course toward a healthier life.
Genetic counseling is considered a vital element of a thorough risk assessment. Learning that you have a high risk of developing heart disease allows you to complete genetic testing as appropriate, to make lifestyle changes, or to begin treatment if needed.
Common genetic tests
The most common tests related to cardiac conditions include:
- Familial hypercholesterolemia
- Hypertrophic and other cardiomyopathy
- Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia
- Inheritable Fatal Cardiac Rhythm Disorders
Genetic counseling will require a referral from your physician. A genetics counselor associated with the Parkview Heart Institute will coordinate the process, including obtaining the referral for you, working with your insurance plan and scheduling you for an appointment. If testing is completed, the genetics counselor will meet with you to review results and develop a plan of care with your physician. To schedule an appointment, call 260-266-5860.