Multidisciplinary interventions in a specialist Drug Development Unit to improve family history documentation and onward referral of patients with advanced cancer to cancer genetics services.

摘要: Abstract Background Molecular aberrations in cancer may represent therapeutic targets, and, if arising from the germline, impact further risk management patients and their blood relatives. Annually, 600–700 are referred for consideration of experimental drug trials Drug Development Unit (DDU) our institution. A proportion merit germline genetic testing because suspicious personal/family history or findings tumour-based testing. We aimed to assess different multidisciplinary interventions on family taking referral rates DDU Cancer Genetics (CGU). Methods Over 42 months, three were undertaken at intervals: (1) embedding a genetics provider review clinic, (2) ‘traffic light’ system flagging cancers with heritable component and (3) virtual meeting (MDM). Comparative analyses between intervals undertaken, including CGU, investigations patient outcomes. Family sample 20 managed each interval was assessed by retrospective chart review. Results Frequency taking and increased intervention, particularly, MDM (40% vs 85%). Referral over study period, 0.1 referral/week (5/year, 0.36% total referrals) 1.2/week (projected 63/year, 3.81%). Forty-four (52%) required testing; whom, variants identified. Non-attendance low (6, 7%). Conclusion Patients unique, long histories often short estimated life expectancy. Multidisciplinary working CGU facilitates those who otherwise miss opportunity.