Genetic testing for hereditary cancer in Switzerland
Official title: Cascade Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast/Ovarian Cancer and Lynch Syndrome in Switzerland
Run by University of Basel · NCT03124212 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see if testing family members of people with hereditary breast, ovarian cancer, or Lynch syndrome can help identify those at risk and improve their chances of early detection and management.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 700 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Basel Academic / other |
| Locations | 9 sites (Fribourg, Canton of Fribourg and 8 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 1, 2017 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2035 |
| Study ends | January 31, 2035 |
| Registry record updated | May 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03124212 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals who are known mutation carriers of HBOC or LS and have at least one living blood relative.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are critically ill, institutionalized, or living outside of Switzerland may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study focuses on cascade genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome (LS) in Switzerland. It aims to identify and test family members of known mutation carriers to determine if they are also carriers of genetic mutations associated with these cancers. By improving access to genetic counseling and testing, the study seeks to enhance early detection and management of cancer risks among asymptomatic relatives. The methodology involves a coordinated approach to genetic screening and communication among family members.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce cancer mortality through early identification and management of hereditary cancer risks.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown success with similar cascade screening approaches, indicating potential effectiveness in improving genetic testing uptake.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Carrier of a mutation associated with HBOC or LS 2. Have at least one living blood relative 3. Men and women 4. 18 years old and older 5. Mentally and physically able to provide informed consent 6. Can read and speak German or French or Italian or English 7. Currently living in Switzerland. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Carriers of unclassified variants (VUS) in BRCA1, BRCA2 or MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, EPCAM genes 2. Not living in Switzerland 3. Patients who are critically ill and cannot complete the CASCADE survey 4. Participants who are institutionalized (e.g., nursing homes) or incarcerated
Where it's running
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Hôpital du Jura Service d'Oncologie
Delémont, Canton of Jura, Switzerland Recruiting -
University Hospital Basel
Basel, Switzerland Recruiting -
Istituto Oncologico della Zvizzera Italiana
Bellinzona, Switzerland Recruiting -
Universitatklinik fur Medizinische Onkologie, Inselspital
Bern, Switzerland Recruiting -
Unite d'Oncogenetique et de Prevention des Cancers
Geneva, Switzerland Recruiting -
HFR Fribourg - Hôpital Cantonal
Fribourg, Canton of Fribourg, Switzerland Not yet recruiting
Show 3 more locations
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Hirslanden Clinic Des Grangettes
Geneva, Canton of Geneva, Switzerland Not yet recruiting -
Katonsspital Winterthur Tumorzentrum Brustzentrum
Winterthur, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland Not yet recruiting -
Gastroenterology clinic
Bern, Switzerland Terminated
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Maria C Katapodi, PhD — University of Basel
- Study coordinator: Maria C Katapodi, PhD
- Email: maria.katapodi@unibas.ch
- Phone: ++41791095163
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Investigating genetic factors in childhood cancer
This study is trying to find out if certain genes passed down in families can increase the risk of childhood cancer by looking at samples from kids who have had cancer and their relatives.
-
Capsule camera screening of the small intestine for people with Lynch syndrome
This project looks back at past small-bowel capsule endoscopy exams to see if they detect precancerous lesions or early cancer in people with Lynch syndrome.
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Liquid biopsy and machine learning to detect early colorectal cancer, advanced adenomas, Lynch-related cancers, and residual disease
This project will test a blood-based liquid biopsy that uses microRNA signals and machine learning to detect colorectal cancer, advanced adenomas, Lynch-associated cancers, and molecular residual disease in people who have a colonoscopy.
-
Cutting down ultra-processed foods for people at high cancer risk
This project tests whether using the Open Food Facts smartphone app alongside nutrition education helps adults at high risk of cancer eat fewer ultra-processed foods.
-
Menstrual cup for early detection of endometrial cancer in Lynch syndrome
This project will test whether using a menstrual cup can collect uterine lining samples that help detect early endometrial cancer in menstruating people who carry Lynch syndrome gene changes.
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Lower GI imaging with a tethered camera capsule
This test tries a small camera capsule on a string that takes pictures of the lower gut without sedation for adults who are healthy or who have Lynch syndrome, Crohn's disease, or other inflammatory bowel diseases.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.