RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Patients with a Family History of Cancer: Identification and Management
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 211
OP 217
DO 10.3122/jabfm.18.3.211
VO 18
IS 3
A1 Margaret M. Eberl
A1 Annette Y. Sunga
A1 Carolyn D. Farrell
A1 Martin C. Mahoney
YR 2005
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/18/3/211.abstract
AB A family history of certain malignancies, especially breast, ovarian, colorectal, and prostate cancers, can place persons at increased risk of developing these cancers. By constructing a pedigree that includes 3 generations, family physicians can identify patients at increased risk because of family cancer history. Persons at increased cancer risk because of family history warrant a surveillance strategy for early detection. Genetic professionals represent an important resource in assessing genetic risk and possible testing. Persons identified as being at increased risk of various cancers based on their family history should understand the surveillance plan that is recommended and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and remaining up to date on other cancer screening tests.