Georgia L. Wiesner, MD, MS, director, Clinical and Translational Hereditary Cancer Program, Ingram Professor of Cancer Research, professor of Medicine, cancer geneticist, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, explains the benefits of genetic testing for colorectal cancer (CRC) and how oncologists can discuss it with their patients.

In this disease, there is a molecular signature located in the colon tumor itself, allowing for  molecular testing, explains Wiesner. Molecular testing, along with family history, can be used by an oncologist to determine if a patient should be seen by a geneticist.  

  For patients who are reluctant to go to a geneticist, Wiesner suggests pointing out two key benefits. First, genetic testing can help determine which treatment methods will be best for that particular patient. Secondly, genetic testing can determine if the cancer is inherited, which may help other family members of the patient understand their risks.   

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 Dr. Wiesner on Benefits of Genetic Testing in Colorectal Cancer

Georgia L. Wiesner, MD, MS, director, Clinical and Translational Hereditary Cancer Program, Ingram Professor of Cancer Research, professor of Medicine, cancer geneticist, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, discusses the importance of genetic testing for colorectal cancer (CRC).

Advancements have been made with genetic testing in the last 2 to 3 years, Wiesner explains. There are certain syndromes that account for a small number of people who are at high risk for developing CRC.

Genetic testing for these patients is important, Wiesner says, in order to gain a deeper understanding of the genes associated with the disease and what could cause it. Practitioners would also be able to do a surveillance approach for these patients.

Georgia L. Wiesner, MD, MS, director, Clinical and Translational Hereditary Cancer Program, Ingram Professor of Cancer Research, professor of Medicine, cancer geneticist, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, discusses the importance of genetic testing for colorectal cancer. 


Georgia L. Wiesner, MD, MS

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Dr. Wiesner on Benefits of Genetic Testing in Colorectal Cancer

Dr. Wiesner on Importance of Genetic Testing for CRC