#USA #Plymouth Meeting #NCCN #Genetic Testing #Hereditary Cancer

New Resource for Genetic Testing Decisions

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), a prominent coalition of elite cancer centers, has introduced a new resource aimed at informing patients about the latest advancements and guidelines regarding genetic testing for hereditary cancer risks. This publication comes at a critical time as the understanding and importance of genetic testing in cancer prevention and treatment has significantly evolved over the years.

The newly published guide focuses on the very latest recommendations for assessing hereditary and familial cancer risks. It leverages the most recent research and expert consensus in cancer genetics, which is increasingly vital in today’s healthcare landscape. With rapid advancements in technology and our understanding of genetics, the guide provides clear, accessible information about inherited genetic mutations that could elevate cancer risks.

"It's paramount for individuals to comprehend their cancer risk in relation to their personal and family medical history," emphasized Dr. Mary B. Daly, an authority in the field and chair of the NCCN Guidelines® Panel for Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment related to breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.

The updates provided in this guide are remarkable considering the changes in clinical genetics. The NCCN guidelines now incorporate insights made possible by the Human Genome Project and the drastically lowered costs of genome sequencing. This evolution has not only deepened our understanding of cancer's natural progression but has also enabled tailored strategies to manage cancer risks effectively.

Patients can access the new NCCN Guidelines for Patients® on Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast, Ovarian, Pancreatic, and Prostate Cancer freely through NCCN.org/patients. Additionally, this guide is available via the NCCN Patient Guides for Cancer App, backed by the support of the NCCN Foundation®. These resources are designed to facilitate decision-making for those concerned about hereditary cancers, presenting them in a manner that is straightforward and understandable.

Susan Friedman, DVM, the Executive Director of FORCE Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered, highlighted the importance of these guidelines by stating, "NCCN correlates national experts in hereditary cancer to draft consensus guidelines based on the latest research. Such reliable information is essential for navigating the complexities surrounding hereditary cancer."

Personal experiences shared by patients also underline the value of genetic testing. For instance, Denise Portner, a breast cancer survivor, recounted how genetic testing helped detect her cancer early. “Before knowing my genetic status, I would not have prompted my physician for an MRI that caught my breast cancer as early as possible,” she reflected. This underscores genetic testing's role in promoting proactive healthcare and better patient outcomes.

Heather Hampel, a certified genetics counselor, emphasizes the necessity of knowing one’s cancer risks based on family history. "Understanding personal risks is critical; it often necessitates earlier or more intense surveillance to ensure early detection. Local cancer genetic counselors can provide tailored assessments to meet individual needs, and I encourage those curious about their risk to seek out those services."

The NCCN library hosts over 70 free guides in multiple languages, delivering invaluable insights on cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care—across nearly all cancer types. These documents, deriving from the continuously updated NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, set global standards for cancer care.

Through credible and patient-friendly materials, the NCCN guides empower cancer patients and caregivers to make informed decisions regarding their treatment pathways. Further details about these initiatives and resources for patients and caregivers can be found at NCCN.org/patientresources.

For those wishing to support NCCN’s efforts in patient education and cancer care, contributions can be made via NCCN.org/foundation.

About NCCN

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® is celebrating 30 years as a non-profit alliance devoted to enhancing cancer care, research, and education. Their goal is to provide effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care, ensuring better lives for all. The NCCN Guidelines® aim to deliver transparent, evidence-based recommendations for managing cancer treatment and preventative measures.

About the NCCN Foundation

The NCCN Foundation focuses on empowering cancer patients and caregivers through expert information and resources. Their work underlines a commitment to cancer research and aiding promising investigators to advance treatment methodologies. More information about the NCCN Foundation can be found at nccnfoundation.org.