Cancer prevention and screening
The results of this study could lead to better implementation of cancer prevention and screening strategies, according to the researchers.
“As we look at guidelines in development and NCCN recommendations, our data suggest that age should not be part of the criteria for genetic testing in patients who have more than one primary cancer. These patients are at high risk and should be recommended for screening,” Dr. Nathanson said.
“If you see a patient with multiple primary cancers, refer for genetic testing. Age does not matter,” she reiterated.
Future research will look at potentially missing mutations.
“With targeted sequencing, structurally rearranged genes might be missed for those at risk. We will try to identify cancer susceptibility genes and define the true risk of penetrance of these genes in the general population,” Dr. Nathanson said.
This research was supported by grants from government agencies and foundations as well as the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Nathanson disclosed no conflicts of interest. Other authors disclosed relationships with a range of companies, all listed in the paper.
SOURCE: Maxwell KN et al. JCO Precis Oncol. 2020. doi: 10.1200/PO.19.00301.
