Genetic Testing for Prostate Cancer

Genetic testing is a way to look for changes (mutations) in your genes that may increase your risk for certain cancers, including prostate cancer. These tests can help guide your treatment and provide important information for your family members about their own cancer risks.

Why is genetic testing ordered for prostate cancer?

Genetic testing is recommended for people with prostate cancer who:

• Have high-risk, very-high-risk, regional (spread to lymph nodes), or metastatic (spread to other parts of the body) prostate cancer.
• Have a strong family history of prostate, breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or other related cancers.
• Have Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, which is linked to a higher chance of certain genetic mutations.
  Testing can help:
• Find out if you or your family members have inherited a higher risk for cancer.
• Guide your doctor in choosing the best treatment for you, including targeted therapies that work better for certain genetic changes.
• Inform your family members if they should consider genetic testing themselves.

What is the difference between germline and somatic testing?

Germline testing looks for inherited genetic changes you were born with. These are found in every cell of your body. These can be passed to your children and may help identify cancer risks for you and your family.
Somatic testing looks for genetic changes that occur only in cancer cells (not inherited). These results can guide targeted treatments. Sometimes somatic testing reveals a change that may also be present in the germline, so both types of testing may be recommended.

What happens if a genetic change is found?

If genetic testing finds a mutation linked to cancer, your doctor may recommend:

• Targeted treatments matched to your results.
• Genetic counseling.
• Cascade testing for family members to check if they carry the same mutation

About Tempus and Financial Aid

Tempus provides genetic testing for cancer patients. Tempus offers a financial aid program. We ask all patients to fill out this form as coverage can be unpredictable and to prevent unexpected bills.
You can access the application using any of the options below:
Website:
Patients.securetempus.com/standalone-checklist/form/financial-assistance
Scan the QR code:

Website:
access.tempus.com
Phone:
800-739-4137
If you have questions or feel anxious about genetic testing, talk with your doctor or request a referral to a genetic counselor. Learning about your genetic risks can help you and your family make informed health decisions.
References
National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Prostate Cancer Guidelines. Updated 2025.
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Germline and Somatic Genomic Testing for Metastatic Prostate Cancer: ASCO Guideline. Updated 2024.
The Urology Group. 2025. Do not duplicate without permission.