What is cascade screening?

FH is an inherited condition, which means it can be passed from parents to their children. For this reason, it is important to identify other blood relatives who are affected through a process called cascade screening.

Who is eligible for cascade screening?

If you have FH, cascade screening then is the process of testing your immediate biological relatives to determine which family members also have the FH gene. First, second, and third degree biological relatives are all candidates for cascade screening.

Who should consider cascade screening?

• Who cascade screening is for: If you have FH, you may want to consider cascade screening. This will help identify other family members at risk
• Who cascade screening is not for: If you have another form of hypercholesterolaemia that is not genetic inherited) or that is due to other genetic conditions.

Click here for a fillable family tree chart (blank)

Where are cascade screening centres in Canada??

Your family doctor can refer you to a specialist. The specialist can then discuss your treatment and schedule testing of your other family members. To see a list of clinics, click the following link: FH Canada Registry participating clinics.