Helping family members at risk for Lynch syndrome get pre-test genetic counseling
Development and Initial Testing of a Behavioral Intervention to Increase Pre-Test Genetic Counseling Among Families at Risk of Lynch Syndrome
A new program to help relatives of people with Lynch syndrome get pre-test genetic counseling so they can learn about their cancer risk and next steps.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11182738 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
First, researchers will talk with relatives who have no personal history of cancer to find out what makes it hard or easy to get pre-test genetic counseling. Next, the team will use those findings and behavior-change theory to design practical supports such as tailored information, outreach, or appointment navigation. Finally, they will do initial testing of the intervention to see if it increases counseling visits and interest in genetic testing among at-risk relatives. The work will include interviews, surveys, and a small pilot rollout led by the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who are blood relatives of someone diagnosed with Lynch syndrome and who have not had prior genetic counseling or a personal history of cancer.
Not a fit: People without a family history of Lynch syndrome, those already diagnosed with LS, or those who have already completed genetic counseling or testing are unlikely to benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, more at-risk relatives may get genetic counseling and testing earlier, enabling earlier screening and prevention that can reduce cancer risk.
How similar studies have performed: Behavioral outreach approaches have improved genetic counseling uptake in some settings, but targeted, theory-based interventions specifically for relatives at risk of Lynch syndrome are largely novel.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Haoyang — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Yan, Haoyang
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.