Clinical, Laboratory, and Epidemiologic Characterization of Individuals and Families at High Risk of Cancer

Launched by NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE (NCI) · Nov 3, 1999

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding why some individuals and families are at a higher risk for certain types of cancer. Researchers are examining how genetic factors (like inherited traits) and environmental factors (such as exposure to certain chemicals or lifestyle choices) may influence cancer risk. Families with multiple members who have had unusual types or numbers of cancers are invited to participate. If you or a family member has a history of rare cancers or known genetic risks, you might be eligible for this study.

Participants can expect to undergo clinical evaluations, complete questionnaires about their health and family history, and donate biological samples (like blood) to help researchers learn more about cancer causes. While the trial does not provide any treatment, it offers counseling and education on cancer prevention and early detection. Additionally, if a specific genetic mutation related to cancer is found in your family, you may be offered genetic testing to better understand your own risk. This testing is optional and will not affect your participation in the study. Throughout the trial, participants will be monitored for any changes in health, and support will be available for those needing further treatment for cancer-related issues.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• * INCLUSION CRITERIA:
• On referral, persons of any age will be considered for the inclusion in the study because of either:
• • A family or personal history of neoplasia of an unusual type, pattern, or number; OR,
• • known or suspected factor(s) predisposing to neoplasia, either genetic and/or congenital factors (birth defects, metabolic phenotype, chromosomal anomalies or Mendelian traits associated with tumors), environmental exposure (medications, occupation, radiation, diet, infectious agents, etc.), or unusual demographic features (very young age of onset, multiple tumors, etc.).
• Personal and family medical history must be verified through questionnaires, interviews, and review of pathology slides and medical records. For familial neoplasms, two or more living affected cases among family members are required. The types of familial tumors that we are currently actively accruing include:
• • Familial Cancers: bladder, brain, chordoma, lung, nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCC)
• • Familial Benign Neoplasms: meningiomas, neurofibromatosis 2 (bilateral acoustic neurofibromatosis)
• • The types of familial tumors under active accrual and study are predominantly investigator-and hypothesis-driven. This approach permits GEB investigators to remain alert to the opportunities afforded by clusters of rare tumors in families and individuals, and to be more responsive to the dynamic research priorities in cancer genetics.
• EXCLUSION CRITERIA:
• • Referred individuals and families for whom reported diagnoses cannot be verified.
• • Inability to provide informed consent.
• • Eligible for familial melanoma, lymphoproliferative, breast-ovarian cancer, or testicular cancer protocols.