The role of genetic counselling in oncology

Abstract

All cancers are genetic disorders, but not all genetic disorders are inherited. Most cancers are sporadic, independent events that do not affect other family members. There is a population risk of developing any cancer and it mainly depends on the individual's age and environmental factors. Cancers linked to predisposition syndromes constitute about 5-10% of all cancer cases. Although it is a small group, making the right diagnosis is important, because of the consequences to the individual, his/her relatives and the benefits they can acquire from surveillance, early therapy and/ or surgical interventions. Genetic counselling plays an important role in diagnosing cancer predisposition syndromes. Hereditary cancer risk assessment includes evaluation of personal and family history, as well as other medical and environmental risk factors. Indications for genetic testing, scope of tests, possible results and their consequences for the patient and his/her family should be discussed.

Molecular diagnostics of cancers – practical approach

“…Genetic cancer diagnostics allows, above all, differential diagnosis, qualifying patients for targeted therapies, and also it enables monitoring of treatment course [1]. Within the diagnostic process, molecular analyses are also applied for assessing the development risk for the given cancer and as a basis for providing genetic counselling and prophylaxis for high-risk family members [2].…”