Dr. Wiesner on Benefits of Genetic Testing in Colorectal Cancer

Georgia L. Wiesner, MD, MS, director, Clinical and Translational Hereditary Cancer Program, Ingram Professor of Cancer Research, professor of Medicine, cancer geneticist, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, explains the benefits of genetic testing for colorectal cancer (CRC) and how oncologists can discuss it with their patients.

In this disease, there is a molecular signature located in the colon tumor itself, allowing for molecular testing, explains Wiesner. Molecular testing, along with family history, can be used by an oncologist to determine if a patient should be seen by a geneticist.

For patients who are reluctant to go to a geneticist, Wiesner suggests pointing out two key benefits. First, genetic testing can help determine which treatment methods will be best for that particular patient. Secondly, genetic testing can determine if the cancer is inherited, which may help other family members of the patient understand their risks.