Highlights
Family communication of cancer genetic test results in an ethnically diverse population: a qualitative exploration of more than 200 patients
From the abstract: " Previous research on family communication of cancer genetic test results has primarily focused on non-Hispanic White patients with high-risk pathogenic variants (PV). There are limited data on patient communication of moderate-risk PVs, variants of uncertain significance (VUS), and negative results. This qualitative study examined communication of positive, negative, and VUS hereditary cancer multi-gene panel (MGP) results in an ethnically and socioeconomically diverse population. "
Written communication of whole genome sequencing results in the NHS Genomic Medicine Service: a multi-centre service evaluation
From the abstract: " Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is being used in diagnostic testing for certain clinical indications within the NHS Genomic Medicine Service (GMS) in England. Letter writing is an integral part of delivering results. However, no national guidelines for writing results from WGS exist. This multi-centre service evaluation used mixed methods to understand the content and readability of letters returning diagnostic, variant of uncertain significance (VUS), and no-finding results to paediatric rare disease patients. "
Liminality between direct and family-mediated contact in the communication of genetic information to at-risk relatives.
From the article: "Ever since genetic test results have been able to be reported, questions have arisen regarding their implications for genetic relatives. Alongside the proband in whom the initial diagnosis is made, family members often also have an interest in the information. Being informed allows an at-risk relative to consider genetic counseling and testing, and to act in advance to prevent or mitigate future morbidity. Indeed, supporting patients to communicate risk information to their relatives is now considered as a key aspect for maximizing the benefits of genomic medicine. "
Challenges and opportunities for Lynch syndrome cascade testing in the United States.
Lauren E Passero et al. Fam Cancer 2024 3
From the abstract: " Lynch syndrome is an underdiagnosed genetic condition that increases lifetime colorectal, endometrial, and other cancer risk. Cascade testing in relatives is recommended to increase diagnoses and enable access to cancer prevention services, yet uptake is limited due to documented multi-level barriers. Individual barriers such as feelings of fear, guilt, and anxiety and limited knowledge about Lynch syndrome as well as interpersonal barriers including complex family dynamics and language barriers limit family communication about Lynch syndrome and prevent uptake of genetic screening for relatives. Organizational and environmental barriers including a shortage of genetics professionals, high costs, and fears of discrimination also reduce cascade testing. These multi-level barriers may disproportionately impact underserved populations in the United States,"
