A Genetic Revolution: Cancer Genetic Testing and Counseling.

Genetic counseling is a relatively young profession that has advanced rapidly over the last 50 years. The term "genetic counseling" was first coined by Sheldon Reed in 1947 to describe the advice he would give to physicians regarding their patient's genetic conditions. Today, more than 5,000 genetic counselors are licensed through the American Board of Genetic Counselors. Clinically, genetic counselors practice in a variety of specialties, including pediatrics, prenatal, neurology and psychiatry; however, oncology remains the most common.1 This article is centered on the most common areas of genetic counseling and addresses the topics of cancer genetic testing, genetic counseling, and explores past and current practices.