Dr. Azad on the Importance of Germline Testing in CRC

Nilofer S​aba Azad, MD, associate professor of oncology, Johns Hopkins ​University School of Medicine, ​director, Developmental Therapeutics Clinical Trials Program, Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, discusses the significance of germline testing in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Hereditary nonpolyposis CRC or Lynch syndrome is present in 1% to 2% of patients​, says Azad. However, it is the most common hereditary cancer syndrome and is associated with an increased risk of developing CRC, as well as other cancers.

 ​Notably, broad molecular testing for hereditary syndromes by genetic counselors can result in earlier detection of associated cancers at more treatable stages​, Azad explains.

Despite the rarity of this genetic syndrome, families that have a strong history of cancer, as well as individuals who are diagnosed with CRC under the age of 50, should undergo germline genetic ​testing, Azad concludes.