Cancer... if it's in the genes
Benefits and risks of cancer genomics for society
Scientists are providing a flood of new genetic insights into cancer. It is becoming ever easier to predict the risk of cancer, or the probability of metastasis of a tumour. But of what use is this knowledge to the patient waiting to visit the general practitioner? And what about his or her family, should it appear that the cancer is in part hereditary? And does the specialist have sufficient resources to answer individual questions and support his patients?
Researchers have sought answers to these questions by means of various case studies, historical research and interviews. They describe how different people, also those within a family, can form a contrasting perception of a risk percentage given by the doctor. They also show how difficult it is to involve family in genetic research. Specialists are increasingly opting for a personal approach. Furthermore, the researchers warn for the exclusion and stigmatisation that can result from the progressive insight into the influence of DNA and the influence that lifestyle has on an individual's risk of getting cancer. A factor that already plays a role among lung cancer patients with a history of smoking.
One of the publications to result from this research is the accessible book ‘Cancer... if it's in the genes.’ It provides insight into the latest developments in cancer research and explains how patients, researchers and therapists deal with the risk of cancer.
Duration: September 2004 - January 2007