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Dr. Azad on the Importance of Germline Testing in CRC
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Nilofer Saba Azad, MD, discusses the significance of germline testing in colorectal cancer.
Nilofer Saba Azad, MD, associate professor of oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, director, Developmental Therapeutics Clinical Trials Program, Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, discusses the significance of germline testing in colorectal cancer (CRC).
Hereditary nonpolyposis CRC or Lynch syndrome is present in 1% to 2% of patients, says Azad. However, it is the most common hereditary cancer syndrome and is associated with an increased risk of developing CRC, as well as other cancers.
Notably, broad molecular testing for hereditary syndromes by genetic counselors can result in earlier detection of associated cancers at more treatable stages, Azad explains.
Despite the rarity of this genetic syndrome, families that have a strong history of cancer, as well as individuals who are diagnosed with CRC under the age of 50, should undergo germline genetic testing, Azad concludes.
