Are Leukemia and Lymphoma Hereditary?

In this conversation, Sarah Bannon discusses the complexities of inherited blood cancers, particularly leukemia, and the evolving role of genetic counseling in understanding and managing these conditions. She highlights the historical context of genetic research in blood cancers, the importance of family history in assessing risk, and the advancements in genetic testing that have led to better identification of hereditary cancer syndromes. The conversation also covers the implications of genetic testing results for patients and their families, the challenges faced in the field, and the rewarding aspects of working in this emerging area of genetic counseling.

On This Episode We Discuss:

• What inherited blood cancers are and how they may run in families
• There are many known genes linked to hereditary blood cancers
• How genetic testing can help monitor family members for early signs of cancer.
• The role of clinical trials to explore preventative treatments for those at risk.

Sarah is a genetic counselor with over 14 years of experience in cancer genetics, specifically leukemia and lymphoma. She is a widely sought expert on hereditary predispositions to hematologic malignancy, which has been the focus of her clinical care and research. Sarah works as a genetic counselor at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

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Here are more resources related to today’s topic, blood and bone marrow cancers:

• National Marrow Donor Program and Be The Match
• Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
• Clinicaltrials.gov tracks all clinical trials available in the US
• Team Telomere - A Community for Telomere Biology Disorders
• RUNX1 Research Program
• Findageneticcounselor.org to find a genetic counselor near you

Any inquiries on the podcast can be sent to AllAccessDNA@gmail.com

Note that this podcast is for entertainment and education and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician with any questions you may have regarding your health.

The All Access DNA team includes: host, producer and editor Kate Wilson. The logo is designed by Designs by NKJ.