PS1-12: Use of Tumor Registry to Obtain Family History Information

  1. Sheila Dobin, PhD1,2
  1. 1Scott & White Memorial Hospital;
  2. 2Texas A&M College of Medicine

Abstract

Background: The Human Genome project has revolutionized the field of medicine to move toward personalized medicine. The family history is a screening tool to identify families at risk for common conditions allowing for personalized care. For breast cancer syndromes, genetic testing, counseling and prophylactic treatment are available. While there are data about the efficacy and clinical utility of the family history, there are areas that still need investigation. Does obtaining the family history lead to patient recommendations? Do patients act on recommendations? Are there barriers to action and are there improved outcomes? One established barrier is the time to obtain a pedigree and knowledge basis for interpretation. Options for obtaining and interpreting a family history are necessary due to these barriers. We examined the use of tumor registry data as a cost effective option for providing family history, and age information.

Methods: The tumor registry data were examined to identify women that were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2004–2008. These data were then substratified for age and family history. A family history was considered positive if it met the US Preventative Health Task Force criteria for breast cancer. The EMRX allowed identification of patients who had genetic counseling and or testing recommended and how many patients followed up on those recommendations.

Results: Between 2004–2008 there were 1,594 patients with a newly diagnosed breast cancer. Of these, 113 had no information (7%). There were 1,112 (75%) that had at least one 1st or 2nd family member with a significant malignancy. There were 61 patients that met criteria for a positive family history. Fourteen patients were at or below age 50, and 47 over age 50. Of the 61 patients, 37 (60.7%) were offered genetic counseling and/or testing.

Conclusions: The tumor registry data did identify individuals with a positive family history of breast cancer and was cost effective. In conjunction with the EMRX, it is possible to see if the appropriate recommendations were made and whether individuals followed the recommendations. These individuals present opportunities for future research in barriers to care, and biomarker research in individuals with a familial risk.

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