Webinar Tues Apr 21: Lynch Syndrome: A Public Health Approach

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Webinar Archive

Lynch Syndrome: A Public Health Approach

Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2015 Time: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. ET

Register (link is external)

It is estimated that 1 in 300 people in the United States are affected by Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition that predisposes individuals to developing colon, uterine, stomach and ovarian cancers among others. Lynch syndrome is not as well known as Hereditary Breast Ovarian Cancer syndrome, but it is just as common if not more common. As a result of a lack of knowledge about Lynch syndrome, the condition continues to be underdiagnosed and genetic services that can reduce risk and identify cancers earlier are often overlooked. Using the numerous screening tools, guidelines and recommendations currently available for Lynch syndrome would save lives. Notably, 1 out of every 35 colorectal cancer patients has Lynch syndrome and there are two screening tests that can be performed on their tumor at the time of diagnosis which can determine whether they are more or less likely to have Lynch syndrome. These tests have been recommended by the Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention workgroup of the CDC but they are still not being performed at every hospital in the United States.

Appropriate management of individuals with Lynch syndrome can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality in this population. Therefore, an integrated public health approach focused on the identification of individuals with Lynch syndrome is critical to impacting health outcomes of individuals and families.

This webinar will highlight real world examples of successful programs that address Lynch syndrome, describe available screening programs and other resources related to Lynch syndrome and provide patient perspectives on the importance of identifying individuals and families with Lynch syndrome.

Introduction:
Summer L. Cox, MPH
Genetics Analyst, Public Health Division, Oregon Health Authority
Panel:
Heather Hampel, MS, LGC
Associate Director, Division of Human Genetics; Associate Director, Biospecimen Research; The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Jay McDaniel
Colon Cancer Survivor; Diagnosed with Lynch syndrome through a universal tumor screening
Debra Duquette, MS, CGC
Genomics Coordinator, Michigan Department of Community Health
Jan Lowery, PhD, MPH
Assistant Professor, Colorado School of Public Health