Gastroenterologists are more likely to obtain a detailed family history of colorectal cancer, use genetic services and be more aware of genetic testing availability than oncologists, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
Researchers analyzed physicians' abilities to obtain appropriate medical history of CRC and refer patients to CRC genetic services via a web-based survey. The researchers also provided an educational webpage on inherited CRCs.
Results revealed that 98.9 percent of respondents obtained a medical history very frequently. However, gastroenterologist respondents asked about relatives' age at cancer diagnosis and family history of polyps more frequently and were more likely to refer patients for genetic counseling than oncologists. Gastroenterologists also had more knowledge of the availability of genetic testing for Lynch syndrome and for familial adenomatous polyposis.
Viewing the educational webpage increased awareness of genetic testing for LS, FAP and Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome, recognition of LS family pedigrees and selection of appropriate surveillance for all respondents.
Read the Journal of Clinical Oncology abstract on colorectal cancer genetic risk assessments.
Read more coverage on GI issues:
- Study: Commensal Genomes Findings May Affect Diagnosis, Regulation of E. Coli
- Chicago Shows Greatest Regional Increase in Covered Virtual Colonoscopies
- Gastroenterologist on the Move: Dr. David Neil Roberts Joins OU Physicians
Researchers analyzed physicians' abilities to obtain appropriate medical history of CRC and refer patients to CRC genetic services via a web-based survey. The researchers also provided an educational webpage on inherited CRCs.
Results revealed that 98.9 percent of respondents obtained a medical history very frequently. However, gastroenterologist respondents asked about relatives' age at cancer diagnosis and family history of polyps more frequently and were more likely to refer patients for genetic counseling than oncologists. Gastroenterologists also had more knowledge of the availability of genetic testing for Lynch syndrome and for familial adenomatous polyposis.
Viewing the educational webpage increased awareness of genetic testing for LS, FAP and Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome, recognition of LS family pedigrees and selection of appropriate surveillance for all respondents.
Read the Journal of Clinical Oncology abstract on colorectal cancer genetic risk assessments.
Read more coverage on GI issues:
- Study: Commensal Genomes Findings May Affect Diagnosis, Regulation of E. Coli
- Chicago Shows Greatest Regional Increase in Covered Virtual Colonoscopies
- Gastroenterologist on the Move: Dr. David Neil Roberts Joins OU Physicians