Caroline Farrington, PhD, ​postdoctoral fellow, Narla lab, University of Michigan, discusses the importance of genetic testing in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Genetic testing is critical in CRC to determine whether patients harbor heritable traits associated with certain syndromes, says Farrington.

Ultimately, the results of genetic testing can help inform treatment decisions, ​Farrington explains. Additionally, genetic testing may shed light on a patient’s risk of disease progression.

Moreover, the results ​could help ​the patient’s family members understand their ​own risk of developing CRC and other associated cancers, and inform how frequently they should receive a colonoscopy, Farrington concludes.

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Caroline Farrington, PhD, discusses the importance of genetic testing in colorectal cancer. 

Dr. Farrington on the Importance of Genetic Testing in CRC 

Caroline Farrington, PhD, ​postdoctoral fellow, Narla lab, University of Michigan, discusses the importance of patient advocacy in colorectal cancer (CRC).

​Being diagnosed with CRC can be overwhelming ​for patients, says Farrington. Moreover, patients may be hesitant to ask questions ​about their care.

As such, it ​is necessary to empower patients to become more engaged ​in their treatment, explains Farrington. ​Additionally, patients should be reassured that they have input in the treatment selection process ​and, therefore, they should be well informed of their options.

Finally, ​a strong support system can allow patients to feel more comfortable during the time of diagnosis​. As such, institutions should have measures in place to accommodate patients who lack a support system, Farrington concludes.

Caroline Farrington, PhD, ​discusses the importance of patient advocacy in colorectal cancer.








Caroline Farrington, PhD

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Dr. Farrington on the Importance of Genetic Testing in CRC

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