Genetic testing for hereditary cancer in Switzerland
Cascade Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast/Ovarian Cancer and Lynch Syndrome in Switzerland
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 700 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Basel Academic / other |
| Locations | 9 sites (Fribourg, Canton of Fribourg and 8 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT03124212 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who are known mutation carriers of HBOC or LS and have at least one living blood relative.
Not a fit: Patients who are critically ill, institutionalized, or living outside of Switzerland may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: Other studies have shown success with similar cascade screening approaches, indicating potential effectiveness in improving genetic testing uptake.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Fribourg, Canton of Fribourg and 8 other locations
- HFR Fribourg - Hôpital Cantonal — Fribourg, Canton of Fribourg, Switzerland (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Hirslanden Clinic Des Grangettes — Geneva, Canton of Geneva, Switzerland (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Hôpital du Jura Service d'Oncologie — Delémont, Canton of Jura, Switzerland (Recruiting)
- Katonsspital Winterthur Tumorzentrum Brustzentrum — Winterthur, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland (Not_yet_recruiting)
- University Hospital Basel — Basel, Switzerland (Recruiting)
- Istituto Oncologico della Zvizzera Italiana — Bellinzona, Switzerland (Recruiting)
- Gastroenterology clinic — Bern, Switzerland (Terminated)
- Universitatklinik fur Medizinische Onkologie, Inselspital — Bern, Switzerland (Recruiting)
- Unite d'Oncogenetique et de Prevention des Cancers — Geneva, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Maria C Katapodi, PhD — University of Basel
- Study coordinator: Maria C Katapodi, PhD
- Email: maria.katapodi@unibas.ch
- Phone: ++41791095163
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.