 Some ovarian and bowel cancers are linked to inherited genes |
A new service providing testing, care and support for people with a family history of cancer is to be expanded. A small number of breast, ovarian and bowel cancers are associated with inherited genes, officials say.
Four pilot projects are already running and Oldham, Poole and Somerset Coast Primary Care Trusts (PCT) will now also provide the service within 12 months.
People with cancer in their family can ring and speak to a genetics nurse who will advise them of risk to themselves.
The service is part of the government's �50m genetics strategy to help make sure NHS patients benefit from the latest developments in genetics medicine.
Risk assessment
Pilot projects are already being run by GPs in south west London, Yorkshire and the North East.
The specialist cancer genetics nurse speaks to worried patients and assesses each case individually.
The Department of Heath said that for many patients, the outcome of their assessment will be simple reassurance that no further intervention is necessary.
For others it may involve genetic testing to more accurately gauge their level of risk and provide advice on prevention and possible treatment options.
Deborah Sullivan, Oldham PCT's cancer specialist, said: "A small number of cancers are associated with particular inherited genes and early testing for these or examining family history can help identify those people who may be at risk.
"We want to make sure that people who may have an increased risk of cancer are aware of the many things they can do to minimise that risk and that people who have no increased risk feel reassured that this is the case."
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