Vol. 17: Summer, 1999
Genetic Cancer Syndromes
Introduction
From the Editor and Authors:
The Summer 1999 Genetic Drift provides a review of current information on familial cancers which primary care providers are likely to encounter in the course of medical practice. The first two articles discuss the two most common and well understood familial cancer syndromes, breast/ovarian and colon, recognizing that familial cases still account for only a few percent of total cancers of these types. A number of other cancers that occur within families are summarized in the third article. While it is estimated that about 15% of cancer is due to inherited cancer-predisposing genes, the identification of individuals with an increased cancer risk is of paramount importance.
The recognition of at-risk families provides a rare opportunity for health care professionals to recommend a cancer surveillance program and also to provide genetic counseling for other family members. A common theme in all three articles is the importance of accurately documenting a three-generation family history; we encourage all providers to inquire about family history of cancer.
Useful web sites, hereditary cancer genetics services available in our region, and information about cancer research opportunities for families are listed at the conclusion of this issue.
This issue was spearheaded by Vickie L. Venne, MS (UT), with contributions from Amy Cronister, MS (AZ), Mark H. Greene, MD (AZ), Lisa Mullineaux, MS (CO), and Catherine Klein, MD (CO).
Carol L. Clericuzio, MD (NM), Editor
The Genetic Drift Newsletter is not copyrighted. Readers are free to duplicate all or parts of its contents. The Genetic Drift Newsletter is published semiannually by the Mountain States Genetics Network for associates & those interested in Human Genetics. In accordance with accepted publication standards, we request acknowledgement in print of any article reproduced in another publication. The views expressed in the newsletter do not necessarily reflect local, state, or federal policy. For additional information, contact Carol Clericuzio, M.D., Editor, Department of Pediatrics, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131
Genetic Cancer Syndromes
Table of Contents
Introduction
Identifying Patients at Risk
Breast/Ovarian Cancer
Colorectal Cancer
Other Familial Cancers
Web Links
Cancer Genetic Services
Current Research Studies
Glossary
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