Narrative review on genetic counseling for hereditary cancers: General considerations

Abstract

The field of oncology has made great strides in the last decade. There have been tremendous advancements in precision oncology and cutting-edge diagnostics to match the unprecedented rise in the incidence of cancer globally. Hereditary cancer syndromes which account for between 5-10% of the total cancer burden, occupy a novel niche, offering the opportunity to receive an early diagnosis through targeted surveillance, adopt preventive screening measures, and preemptively control the disease. To prepare this review, we searched in PubMed, international government web pages, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for published literature on genetic testing in hereditary cancers. This review article represents a consensus between the authors, based on the literature review, with a view to being relevant in the Indian setting. Genetic counseling plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and management of hereditary cancers. India must adopt a streamlined approach to the treatment of hereditary cancers by enhancing awareness and incorporating the right protocols for genetic counseling. This educational series, focused on genetic counseling for hereditary and sporadic cancers, is the first step in generating awareness among individuals and clinicians in India.

Keywords

• cancer genetics
• familial cancer genes
• hereditary cancers
• pedigree analysis