Common hereditary cancer syndromes.
OBJECTIVE
To review cancer risk assessment and counseling, hereditary cancer syndrome risk factors, indicators for cancer predisposition testing, and interpretation of genetic test results.


METHODS
Research studies, review articles, and authors' experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Approximately 10% of those with a diagnosis of cancer may have a hereditary predisposition. In many cases genetic testing for susceptibility genes may be available. Knowledge of the results of genetic testing can be helpful when developing a plan for cancer prevention and early detection, and addressing concerns associated with genetic testing with the individual and family.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses need to know how to access genetic resources and to identify, evaluate, and care for patients and families at risk of or diagnosed with common hereditary cancer syndromes.
Greco
Karen E
KE
Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Nursing, Portland, OR 97239-2941, USA.
Mahon
Suzanne
S
D005817:Genetic Counseling; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009386:Neoplastic Syndromes, Hereditary / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics / Q000451:nursing; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009859:Oncology Nursing / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards; D012307:Risk Factors