Mount Elizabeth Novena Centre for Genomic Health

Did you know that the DNA in a person's genes can put some of us at a higher risk of developing certain diseases?

At Mount Elizabeth Novena Centre for Genomic Health, we provide genetic testing services that involve examining your DNA to reveal changes in your genes which may cause illness or disease.

What are the benefits of genetic testing?

Genetic testing can uncover and help you understand genetic mutations (genetic changes) you may have. This can help to:

• Explain existing health problems and determine your chances of developing or passing on a genetic disorder
• Diagnose genetic conditions if you or your child displays symptoms
• Uncover genetic conditions before symptoms appear. This can be useful for showing someone’s predisposition to certain cancers, such as certain types of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers.
• Shape your cancer prevention or treatment plan. Genetic testing can help identify cancer-prevention (chemoprevention) medicines and cancer treatment options that may be more effective for you – whether it is surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. It can also identify if you are eligible for clinical trials.

When should you consider genetic testing?

You and your relative can consider genetic testing if either or both of you have had:

• Cancer, an early heart attack, coronary heart disease, or stroke at an early age
• Unexplained fainting, unexplained seizures, unexplained cardiac arrest, fainting with exercise or sudden deaths caused by undiagnosed heart disease
• An irregular heartbeat, enlarged heart or a heart defect since birth
• A rare or uncommon cancer
• A diagnosis of 2 or more different cancers
• A diagnosis of associated types of cancers and heart diseases on the same side of the family
• A positive test result for a genetic mutation related to cancer and heart risk

Watch this video to hear from Dr John Chia, our specialist in genomic health, as he discusses about genomic testing, its benefits, and who should go for it.

Your genetic testing journey at Mount Elizabeth

The genetic testing process involves:

1. Making an appointment

• We are open Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) from 9am – 12pm and 1pm – 5pm.
• Local patients may call +65 6933 0020 during operating hours or email genomichealth@mountelizabeth.com.sg
• Overseas patients may contact one of the Patient Assistance Centres in their country of residence or email genomichealth@mountelizabeth.com.sg

2. Genetic counselling

The results from a genetic test can significantly impact yourself and your loved ones. This is why genetic counselling is essential. A genetic counsellor will provide objective information to help you and your family make well-informed medical decisions.

The genetic counselling process involves:

• Assessing medical histories. This can help determine the likelihood of a genetic condition.
• Understanding the benefits and limitations of genetic testing. This will help decide if genetic testing is right for you.
• Counselling. This involves a risk assessment and understanding your family goals, ethical considerations, and religious values to help support well-informed choices.
• Genetic testing. The appropriate genetic test will be ordered if you choose to proceed.
• Understanding the results. Your genetic test results will be interpreted and explained so you understand its impact on you and your family.
• Follow-up care. You will be informed about a condition’s progression and inheritance pattern, available testing options, management, prevention, and support resources available.

Genetic counselling may also involve professional psychological support, both before and after the test, to assist you in handling the potential implications of the test results.

3. Sample collection

Your blood sample will be taken for clinical analysis.

4. Laboratory work

We collaborate with local and internationally accredited laboratories, such as the College of American Pathologists (CAP), to ensure the highest quality of testing and interpretation of results.

5. Medical report collection

Your results will be ready within 4 – 6 weeks, and we will reach out to you through your preferred mode of communication (either mobile or email) to arrange a post-result review at your convenience. This can be done face-to-face at Mount Elizabeth Novena Centre for Genomic Health or via teleconsultation.

Our genetic counsellors will be available to provide you with support and guidance in dealing with the implications of your test results.

6. Follow-up care

If your results indicate a high risk of developing certain diseases, such as cancer, your genetic counsellor and doctor will explain the follow-up surveillance plan and the necessary treatment plan. You may tap on specialists from our Mount Elizabeth care network, so rest assured you will be in good hands.

If a specialist referred you, your results will be sent directly to him/her for your post-care follow-up.

Our dedicated team

You can count on our dedicated team of experienced genetic counsellors and doctors to guide and assist you every step of the way. We strive to provide you with the best quality of care, ensuring that your needs are met throughout your journey with us.

Learn more about our team.