What We’re Not Saying: Hereditary Cancer, Prevention and Public Health with Genetic Counselor, Jennifer Thompson

Episode Summary

In today’s conversation, we dig into the part of cancer conversations that rarely makes headlines -  hereditary cancer risk, prevention, and the systemic barriers that keep people from getting the care they need.

My guest, Jennifer Thompson, MS, CGC is a board-certified genetic counselor and founder of HealthyGene, a digital genetic counseling clinic designed to remove barriers to hereditary cancer risk assessment. She specializes in cancer genetics, patient advocacy, and improving early access to testing through education and telehealth.

Together, we unpack:

• Why media coverage around public figures’ diagnoses often misses the prevention angle
• Why genetic testing isn’t being offered early enough and the very real consequences
• The Angelina Jolie Effect vs. modern missed opportunities
• How legislative policies are threatening research, Medicaid access, and public health
• How people and providers can start earlier, clearer conversations
• What real self-advocacy looks like
• How to navigate family conversations about genetic risk
• The difference between clinical genetic testing and direct-to-consumer kits
• Why understanding your family history still matters most

Resources Mentioned

• HealthyGene Website: https://myhealthygene.com 
• Know Your Risk Quiz (free assessment for BRCA & Lynch): available on the HealthyGene homepage: https://www.myhealthygene.com/know-your-risk-quiz
• Jennifer's Blog: President Biden's Diagnosis: https://www.myhealthygene.com/post/biden-prostate-cancer-brca-risk
• Find a Genetic Counselor: https://findageneticcounselor.com

Listen + Connect

• Podcast blog + extended show notes: www.positivegenepodcast.com
• Connect with Jennifer:
  • Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/myhealthygene
  • LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/healthygene/
• Connect with Sara/Podcast: 
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivegenepodcast/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarakavanaughspeaks/
  • Website:  www.sarakavanaugh.com

If you’ve ever felt like the conversation about cancer stops with treatment instead of starting with prevention, this episode is your reminder:

Knowledge is power.

It’s never too early to ask questions, learn your family history, and take steps to protect yourself and the people you love.