A 2010 National Health Interview Survey indicated that less than 50% of the U.S. adult population is aware of cancer susceptibility genetic testing.
The Department of Public Health Genomics Office has invited panelists including genetic counselors, a scientist, a physician, and student survivors for an interprofessional and interactive event to increase awareness of familial risk for hereditary cancers, genetic testing and counseling services available, genetic nondiscrimination laws, and about preventive services covered under the Affordable Care Act.
Family health history is a strong predictor of disease risk. For example, about 119,000 people in Connecticut are of Jewish descent, a high-risk population subgroup for harmful BRCA gene mutations. BRCA gene mutations are more likely to occur in people who have close family members diagnosed with breast and/or ovarian cancer, highlighting the importance of collecting family health history and sharing this information with healthcare providers. Furthermore, healthcare providers have an increasing role in the identification and referral of patients at high risk for hereditary cancers.
If you are of Jewish descent, have a family member diagnosed with a hereditary form of cancer, or are pursuing a career in medicine or healthcare sciences, this event is for you!
Wednesday November 4, 2015 5:00- 7:00 pm
Hillel House, N. Eagleville Rd UConn Storrs
Dinner, door prizes and dairy bar provided
Students who RSVP & attend will have their names entered into a drawing for a $50 Starbucks Gift Card.
This is an approved UConn Honors event.
Support for this event is provided by the UConn Hillel House, CT Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control, UConn Honors Program, UConn Department of Allied Health Sciences and the UConn Committee on Interprofessional Excellence in Healthcare
For more information, contact: Judy Brown at judy.brown@uconn.edu