This event is focussed on identifying and supporting patients who may be at an increased risk of hereditary cancer. This event is designed to provide healthcare professional with essential knowledge and tools to effectively manage and support patients with a family history of cancer.
RACGP approved educational activity for 1.5 hours
Learning outcomes:
- Describe the guidelines and criteria for referral for a genetic assessment
- Outline the circumstances when it is appropriate to refer for a genetic assessment
- Outline the information required on a referral for genetic assessment
- Discuss the implications of genetic testing for a gene mutation related to breast, ovarian and/or prostate cancer
- Describe the role patient support organisations play for patients who carry gene mutations that predispose them to cancer
- Outline where to access the most appropriate evidence-based information about cancer genetics.
Speaker Information:
Robyn Smith is the Programs and Advocacy Manager at Inherited Cancers Australia. She has a background in finance and health promotion and has worked in roles focusing on preventive health campaigns and education programs. Robyn is a keen advocate for patients making informed decisions about managing their cancer risk. She is part of several genomics working groups and is currently contributing to research focused on women’s choices round going flat after a mastectomy and research investigating adverse events related to breast implants.
Rachel Pope-Couston is a Registered and Certified Genetic Counsellor with over 10 years’ experience in clinical genetics practice working across Australia and NZ, and with all areas of genetics including inherited cancer predisposition and risk assessment. Rachel is currently the Senior Genetic Counsellor and Manager of the Tasmanian Clinical Genetics Service, the only public genetics service in Tasmania which operates Statewide as part of the Tasmanian Health Service/Department of Health. Rachel is also the current President of Committee of Management for The Genetic Support Network of Victoria (The GSNV), a consumer advocacy group which assists people with genetic, rare and undiagnosed conditions and those who support them including support groups, health professionals, non-health professionals, families, and the broader community.
Lindi Bell is a BRCA2 “previvor”. Whilst not having had a diagnosis of BRCA related cancers, Lindi (and her mother and youngest sister) discovered that they were born with the BRCA2 gene mutation in 2015. Soon after receiving her results, Lindi underwent prophylactic surgeries in late 2015 and early 2016 to remove her ovaries and breasts. Lindi facilitates an online support group for those affected by BRCA gene mutations in Australia with a membership of over 1000, which operates as a peer support model, and advocates strongly through awareness and fund raising, for empowerment around decision making and body image, management of monitoring and surgically-induced menopause.