Genetic Predisposition to Cancer and Preneoplastic Disorders, An Issue of Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America

This issue serves as a timely review of both the genetic and genomic factors resulting in a predisposition to human cancer. There is now strong evidence to support the use of genetic testing for cancer predisposition in the practice of preventive medicine, and at the same time, there is emerging new literature defining the role of genomic approaches to assessment of cancer predisposition. Articles address predisposition syndromes in the areas of breast cancer, lower GI cancer, genitourinary cancer, pediatric cancer, endocrine cancer, and hematologic malignancy.

Prof. Robson is a board-certified medical oncologist who specializes in the identification and management of individuals who have inherited an increased risk for cancer. He concentrates on helping men and women with cancer incorporate genetic information into their treatment plan. For those who are at increased risk, but have not been diagnosed, he works to develop a plan that will help them either prevent the development of cancer, or limit its impact if it occurs. Along the same lines, his research focus has studied the best ways to use genetic information to improve the outcomes of those with or at risk for hereditary cancers of all types. Consistent with the goals, he pursues in his clinical genetics work, his oncology practice is weighted toward the management of young women with breast cancer, especially hereditary breast cancer. As part of that practice, he participates in the development of new treatments, such as PARP inhibitors, which may be particularly useful for this group of women. Finally, he also maintains a separate practice where he coordinates screening for women with mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2