| Theme | Polyposis of the colon and rectum, and other related conditions : hereditary colorectal cancer | |
|---|---|---|
| Title | Coordination for hereditary cancer patients and families | |
| Publish Date | 2005/11 | |
| Author | Yuko Takeda | Faculty of Nursing and Medical Care, Keio University School of Medicine |
| Author | Takeo Iwama | Department of Surgery, Kyoundo Hospital, Sasaki Foundation |
| [ Summary ] | It is well known that the onset of hereditary cancer occurs earlier than non-hereditary cancer. An early detection strategy may ultimately reduce cancer related mortality. Surveillance of high risk individuals should have the highest priority. However, there are many factors, such as the psychological burden, social prejudice, discrimination, and the economic burden, that hinder high-risk individuals from making regular visits to their physician and undergoing surveillance. A variety of support is required depending on the situation. Health care providers working in oncology or genetics will have the responsibility of comprehensively assessing situations surrounding patients and families and coordinating roles in providing support, according to the situation. It is important to establish a system that may coordinate follow-ups on these families and assure the continuity of lifelong surveillance programs. |
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