How to support cancer genetics counselees in informing at-risk relatives? Lessons from a randomized controlled trial

In early-onset breast, ovarian or colorectal cancer or in families with multiple family members affected by these cancer types pedigree analysis and DNA testing can lead to a diagnosis of hereditary or familial cancer. This diagnosis implies a high or increased cancer risk for the index patient, i.e., the first in a family to request cancer genetic counseling, which then can lead to appropriate surveillance or preventive measures. In general, the diagnosis of an increased cancer risk also has implications for multiple at-risk relatives.

Source: Patient Education and Counseling - May 8, 2018 Category: International Medicine & Public Health Authors: Willem Eijzenga, Eveline de Geus, Cora M. Aalfs, Fred H. Menko, Rolf H. Sijmons, Hanneke C.J.M. de Haes, Ellen M.A. Smets Source Type: research