Genetics: How a Conversation with Family Can Help Prevent Cancer

When it comes to preventing cancer, sometimes the most powerful tool is a conversation. 

In this episode of What to Know Down Below™, attorney, writer and BRCA awareness advocate Erika Stallings sits down with Estie Rose, a licensed genetic counselor at JScreen. Together, they discuss how understanding your family health history and exploring genetic testing can empower you to make informed choices about your health — and why talking openly with loved ones can be the first step toward prevention. 

CLICK HERE to watch this episode on YouTube!  

CLICK HERE to learn more about JScreen!

tinaswish.org/whattoknow

Chapters

• 0:00 Welcome And Purpose
• 0:32 What Genetic Counselors Actually Do
• 2:23 Baseline Risk Vs Hereditary Risk
• 4:58 BRCA Genes Explained
• 6:38 Starting Genetic Counseling And Testing
• 8:14 Gathering And Sharing Family History
• 11:14 Access, Cost, And Who Should Test
• 13:40 Life After A Positive Result
• 16:03 Ovarian Risk And Surgical Timing
• 18:14 Intensive Screening If You Delay Surgery
• 19:36 Myths: Men, BRCA, And Other Cancers
• 22:01 Retesting As Technology Advances
• 24:08 Previvors, Community, And Support
• 26:10 Self‑Advocacy And Using Experts
• 28:10 Closing Thoughts And Resources