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Breast carcinoma genetics from a primary care perspective
Author(s) -
Burke Wylie,
Press Nancy,
Pinsky Linda
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1097-0142(19970801)80:3+<621::aid-cncr12>3.0.co;2-g
Subject(s) - genetic counseling , medicine , referral , genetic testing , cancer genetics , family medicine , breast cancer , family history , informed consent , medical genetics , cancer , gynecology , alternative medicine , pathology , genetics , gene , biology
As new information emerges about breast carcinoma genetics, methods to integrate this information into routine clinical practice are needed. The small proportion of breast carcinoma cases due to inherited mutations must be taken into account, as well as the possibility that overemphasis on genetic risk may exacerbate breast carcinoma worries for many women. A collaborative effort between geneticists and primary care providers will support the development of needed guidelines and educational materials. Topics to be addressed include the interpretation of a family history of cancer, the risks and benefits of genetic testing, and recommendations for cancer screening based on risk status. Because most women with a family history of breast carcinoma have little or no increased risk, the goal should be to help primary care practitioners provide effective counseling and appropriate cancer screening to this group, while enabling them to identify the small proportion of high risk individuals who would benefit from referral to genetic counseling. Materials developed in this collaboration should be easy to use in a clinical setting and updated on a regular basis. Related questions to be addressed include what issues to incorporate in counseling sessions for individuals at different risk levels, how to ensure fully informed consent for individuals considering genetic testing, and how to implement effective follow‐up care for genetically susceptible individuals. A partnership between medical genetics and primary care practice can help to address these issues in a productive and balanced manner. Cancer 1997; 80:621‐6. © 1997 American Cancer Society