The Maritime Medical Genetics Service provides a multidisciplinary approach to genetic counselling. For this defined group of individuals with possible genetic predisposition, discussion centres on family history, risk assessment, as well as screening, management and treatment issues. Family history, age of onset and clinical diagnosis are used in risk assessment to determine if genetic testing may be appropriate. Risk assessment and recommendations for cancer screening are provided and referrals to other specialists are made as indicated (eg. surgeons, oncologists, internists, psychologist, support groups).