Telehealth: Expanding Genetic Testing for Childhood Cancer Survivors
Adults who survived childhood cancer face a heightened risk of developing secondary cancers, like breast, colorectal, sarcomas, and thyroid cancer. While previous cancer treatments contribute to this risk, a significant portion – up to 13 percent – is linked to hereditary predispositions. Fortunately, a recent clinical trial demonstrates that telehealth is dramatically improving access to vital genetic services for these survivors.
Bridging the Access Gap with Remote Genetic Counseling
Traditionally, accessing genetic counseling and testing has been a hurdle for many survivors. Geographical limitations, specialist shortages, and logistical challenges often create barriers to care. However, a modern approach is gaining traction: remote, centralized telehealth services integrated with primary care. This model is proving effective in increasing the uptake of genetic testing, leading to earlier detection and potentially reducing mortality.
The study, published in Lancet Regional Health – Americas, involved 391 participants with a signify age of 44. Researchers found that 43 percent of those utilizing telehealth services completed genetic testing within six months, compared to just 15 percent in the usual care group. This represents a substantial increase in access to potentially life-saving information.
Actionable Results and Personalized Care
The impact of this increased testing isn’t just about numbers. it’s about actionable results. Ten percent of participants in the telehealth group who completed genetic testing received results that could inform personalized survivorship care, including earlier screenings and preventative measures.
“Identifying survivors with cancer-predisposing genetic variants allows personalized survivorship care with early screenings and preventive measures,” explains Dr. Tara Henderson, MD, MPH, Chair of Pediatrics at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. “Our study is the first national randomized trial to show that remote telehealth services, working with primary care providers, improve access to genetic counseling and testing for adult survivors of childhood cancers.”
The Future of Telehealth in Cancer Survivorship
While the study highlights the success of integrating telehealth into primary care, researchers acknowledge that further improvements are needed. Enhancing motivation for testing through personalized decision aids, increased education about the benefits, and addressing financial concerns related to testing costs are key areas for future focus.
The rise of telegenetics isn’t limited to childhood cancer survivors. A study published in Cancer Med in 2021 examined the benefit of telehealth in oncology practices generally lacking genetic counselors, demonstrating its broader applicability. This suggests a potential shift towards a more decentralized and accessible model of genetic service delivery across the cancer care continuum.
The trend aligns with a growing emphasis on preventative care and personalized medicine. As genetic testing becomes more affordable and accessible, telehealth will likely play an increasingly crucial role in empowering patients to take control of their health and proactively manage their cancer risk.
Pro Tip:
Don’t hesitate to discuss your cancer history and family history with your primary care physician. They can support determine if genetic testing is right for you and connect you with appropriate resources.
FAQ
Q: Who should consider genetic testing after surviving childhood cancer?
Adults who were treated for cancer as children, particularly those with a family history of cancer, should discuss genetic testing with their doctor.
Q: What does genetic testing involve?
Genetic testing typically involves a blood or saliva sample. The sample is analyzed to identify genetic variants that may increase cancer risk.
Q: Is genetic testing expensive?
The cost of genetic testing can vary. Financial assistance programs may be available to help cover the cost.
Q: How does telehealth make genetic services more accessible?
Telehealth eliminates geographical barriers and allows patients to connect with genetic counselors remotely, increasing access to care.
Q: What are actionable results from genetic testing?
Actionable results can inform personalized screening plans, preventative measures, and treatment decisions.
Did you know? Offering remote centralized telehealth genetic services increases the uptake of genetic services in survivors of childhood cancer across the US.
Want to learn more about cancer survivorship and genetic testing? Visit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago to explore additional resources.
