The COSA Familial Cancer Group was formed in 2006 to provide a national forum for discussion and interaction among the full spectrum of clinical, research and support service personnel engaged in familial cancer research, treatment and management. Specialists in this relatively new area of cancer usually have a background in oncology or genetics (or both) and work with trained genetic counsellors.
Some of the issues in which the group has interest include:
- continuing education for COSA members;
- coordination of familial cancer research;
- development of consistent clinical protocols across Australia; and
- workforce and training requirements.
There have been considerable advances in the area of cancer genetics over the last 10 years, with the identification and characterisation of genes in which germline mutations predispose to a high risk of cancer.
Along with this has come availability of genetic testing in certain families with a genetic predisposition. In the area of genetic susceptibility to breast/ovarian and bowel cancers, there are now well developed clinical programs available via Family Cancer Services in most states of Australia. Family Cancer Services have been developed to provide cancer risk assessment, surveillance, prevention strategies and genetic counselling and testing, when appropriate, for these families.
Services are usually situated in institutions with a public-sector comprehensive cancer service, forming a key part of the multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. The improved ability to detect people at high risk through analysis of their family history and genetic testing has been accompanied by advances in cancer screening, cancer surveillance and cancer prevention. It is important to identify these individuals so that these advances can be applied in their management, offering hope of making an impact on the national goals of cancer control.
Conferences
1. COSA ASM 14-16 November 2007
The COSA ASM provided a stage for many interesting and thought provoking presentations on familial cancer. A broad range of familial cancer topics were covered. Some notable inclusions were presentations on the latest knowledge on HNPCC, successful support group programs for BRCA gene mutation carriers and an update on the management of Li-Fraumeni syndrome. One presentation which generated particular media interest was by Dr Graeme Suthers, Head of the Familial Cancer Unit in SA. He presented data that showed up to 60% of people who are referred to the Familial Cancer Clinic do not present, despite it being recommended by their medical practitioner. He highlighted that Behavioural research is required to determine why such a large proportion of people, who may be at high genetic risk of familial cancer, do not participate in what could be a life saving intervention.
2. Familial Cancer: Research and Practice Conference 2008
The Familial Cancer: Research and Practice Conference will be held at Couran Cove Island Resort in the Gold Coast, Queensland from 19-22 August 2008. Registrations will begin in early 2008.
Visit www.kconfab.org for conference updates.