Understand your genetic risk for cancer and other conditions
Medical genetics can help you determine your risk of developing cancer and many other genetic conditions, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.
As a center for excellence in genetics, Baylor Scott & White offers comprehensive evaluations if you or a family member thinks you might have a genetic disorder, you or a family member have been diagnosed with cancer, or if you are pregnant and are interested in prenatal screenings. You can access a full range of genetic testing for children and adults using the latest techniques.
We take a patient-centered, compassionate approach. Your team of genetics specialists, genetic counselors and nurse practitioners will work with you to offer the best possible care. They will help you understand the implications of genetic testing and help you navigate your options for care.
Our approach to medical genetics
We aim to put you in control of your health, giving you and your family the information you need. We will take time to understand your family and medical history, concerns and expectations.
Our highly skilled genetics experts use advanced and minimally invasive tests, informed by innovative research. Next-generation sequencing is a genetic technology that enables thousands of genes to be sequenced in a short period of time, usually through a simple blood or saliva sample. Other tests can also screen for a single gene or group of genes. Our genetic specialists will work with you to determine the best genetic test for you and your family.
Our team of genetic counselors and specialists will help you understand your results and what they mean for you. Your team can then recommend further personalized care for you, as well as support groups and other resources.
Genetic counseling
We understand you might feel anxious if you or your child are at risk of a genetic disorder. Getting tested can help remove uncertainty, give you peace of mind, or enable you to plan for the future.
Our board-certified genetic counselors and doctors who specialize in medical genetics will guide you through the process, helping you choose the right testing for you. They will look at your family history, ancestry and current health to assess your risk of developing some types of cancer, heart disease or other conditions.
The genetic counselor will also help you evaluate the pros and cons of testing and discuss what kind of action you might take if you have a positive test result. The genetic counselor will then walk you through your test results, providing support and advice if a genetic variant or mutation is detected.
Genetic testing
Genetic testing looks for inherited changes or mutations that can increase your chance of developing certain conditions. Genetic testing cannot tell if you will develop it, but it gives you a more personalized understanding of risk. It can also indicate if your unborn child might develop a genetic condition.
Testing is carried out on blood, saliva or tissue samples. Cell-free fetal DNA testing uses a sample of the pregnant mother’s blood, with no risk to your baby to assess the baby’s risk.
We offer a range of tests, including:
- Carrier screening: This can determine if you are a carrier of a recessive genetic condition. Even if you have no symptoms, you might pass the gene on to a child.
- Cancer risk assessment: Up to 10% of cancers are thought to have a hereditary component. If you have a personal or family history of cancer, genetic testing can help identify if there is a hereditary gene change increasing your risk for certain cancers.
- Genetic testing for cardiovascular disease: Testing for inherited cardiovascular conditions can help you make informed choices about your heart health.
- Noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS): Testing can detect if your baby has chromosomal abnormalities as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy.
Personalized care plans
Your genetic information is a powerful tool for guiding your health journey. Our medical genetics team uses this information to develop personalized care plans that address your unique needs. Whether it’s selecting treatments, planning lifestyle changes, or preventing potential conditions, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
How precision medicine can benefit you:
- Tailored treatment plans based on your genetic profile and individual genetic risk
- Proactive strategies to lower your risk for certain conditions
- Smarter management of chronic illnesses with targeted therapies
Our goal is to help you take charge of your health with confidence and clarity, supported by care that’s as unique as you are.
Conditions we treat
We offer specialized care for a wide range of genetic diseases and those with a hereditary condition in children and adults. Your multidisciplinary team will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan for you.
If you or your child are at high risk of developing a genetic condition, you will have the support you need to understand screening guidelines and preventive measures.
Conditions we treat include:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Birth defects
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Connective tissue disorders
- Cystic fibrosis
- Developmental delays
- Hereditary cancer, such as BRCA1/2 and Lynch Syndrome
- Metabolic disorders
- Muscular conditions, such as muscular dystrophy
- Neurological disorders, such as Huntington’s disease
Our medical genetics specialty programs and clinics
You can access preventive screenings and treatments if you are affected by or at risk of a genetic disease. Our multidisciplinary teams will work with you to develop a healthcare plan for your unique situation. From treating rare genetic heart disorders to supporting families affected by a genetic diagnosis, we put you at the center of everything we do.
High-Risk Breast Cancer Screening Program
Our High-Risk Breast Cancer Screening Program supports women at increased risk of breast cancer with comprehensive care, including BRCA genetic testing and counseling, advanced screenings like breast MRIs, ongoing monitoring, and personalized treatments when necessary to help reduce and manage their risk.
Plano Genetics Center
As the only center of its kind in North Texas, our Plano Genetics Center is devoted to detecting and treating rare genetic heart conditions. In partnership with specialist doctors and surgeons, genetic counselors will work with you to understand your family history.
Pediatric Genetics
Find a location near you
We help you get care at a location that fits your needs. We offer several locations for your care, including specialized genetic testing centers in North and Central Texas.
Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center - Fort Worth
1400 8th Ave , Fort Worth, TX, 76104
Baylor Scott & White Clinic - Temple
2401 S 31st St , Temple, TX, 76508- Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - College Station
700 Scott and White Dr , College Station, TX, 77845
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Grapevine
1650 W College St , Grapevine, TX, 76051
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Irving
1901 N MacArthur Blvd , Irving, TX, 75061
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Temple
2401 S 31st St , Temple, TX, 76508
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Waxahachie
2400 N Interstate 35E , Waxahachie, TX, 75165