How risk prediction could change surgery

How risk prediction could change surgery

Advances in cancer risk assessment are increasingly influencing decisions about screening, surveillance and surgery. This webinar will provide surgeons with an accessible introduction to contemporary approaches to cancer risk prediction and explore how risk information can be applied in clinical practice across different surgical specialties.

This session is chaired by Frank McDermott, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and RCS England Lead for Genomics and Molecular Surgery who will be joined by Terri McVeigh, Consultant Clinical Geneticist specialising in Cancer Genetics and Sue Clark, Consultant colorectal surgeon at St Mark’s Hospital.

Using practical case-based examples, the faculty will discuss the role of family history, germline genetic testing, tumour testing, polygenic risk scores and integrated risk models. The session will also examine the current evidence base, highlighting which approaches are established in routine care and which remain investigational.

The webinar will consider how cancer risk estimates may inform surveillance strategies, intervention thresholds and the extent of surgery, while addressing the uncertainties and limitations that should be considered when supporting shared decision-making with patients.

Learning outcomes

By attending this webinar, you will be able to:

• describe the main components of contemporary cancer risk assessment, including family history, germline genetics, tumour testing, polygenic risk and integrated risk models;
• distinguish between risk-prediction approaches that are established in current clinical practice and those that remain emerging or research-based;
• recognise situations in which risk information may influence surveillance, intervention or the extent of surgery, and where it should not yet alter management;
• discuss the uncertainties and limitations involved in using cancer risk estimates to support shared surgical decision-making.

Who should attend?

This webinar is aimed at surgeons and surgical trainees across all specialties, particularly those involved in cancer care. It will also be relevant to members of the wider surgical multidisciplinary team.

No prior knowledge of genomics, genetics or cancer risk prediction is required.

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This webinar is free for members and accredited for up to one CPD point. Unable to attend the session live? Register for the webinar to access the recording anytime.