Hereditary Genetics: Current Research

Abstract

Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment: How Best can we Achieve it?

Israel Gomy and Maria Del Pilar Estevez Diz

Hereditary cancer risk assessment (HCRA) is a multidisciplinary process of estimating probabilities of germline mutations in cancer susceptibility genes and assessing empiric risks of cancer, based on personal and family histories. It includes genetic testing and management of at-risk individuals so that they can make informed choices about cancer screening, surgical and chemo preventive options, as well as genetically targeted cancer therapies. Providing patients with pre- and post-test genetic counseling may help them to get better informed decision making.Following individuals at increased risk with surveillance protocols, reassuring those at low risk, and referring those at high risk of a hereditary cancer to a cancer genetics center with outpatient clinics may be the best suitable approach to HCRA.