EGAPP: Informing the effective integration of genomics into health practice—Lynch syndrome
This web page is archived for historical purposes and is no longer being maintained or updated.

Public health issue:
Lynch syndrome (LS)External
EGAPP response:
In 2009, the EGAPP Working Group issued an evidence-based recommendation that genetic testing for LS be offered to all persons with newly diagnosed CRC to benefit their at-risk relatives identified through cascade screening. Several different genetic testing strategies are available for Lynch syndrome, including screening of cancer tissue and/or diagnostic testing of DNA from normal tissue. Implementation of this recommendation is a unique opportunity to prevent CRC, through increased surveillance where indicated, in thousands of people. Furthermore, an analysis conducted in 2009External

Context:
At the time that the EGAPP recommendation was issued, there were no evidence-based recommendations for universal screening for LS among newly diagnosed colorectal cancer cases. The NCCN LS screening guidelinesCdc-pdf
Impact:
In September 2010, CDC convened a multidisciplinary workingExternal
12 responded that they altered existing criteria for screening from a subset of CRCs to all CRCs.
- 28 responded that the recommendation provided a basis for initiating a LS screening protocol.
- 30 responded that the recommendation is being used to justify developing a LS screening protocol.
- 24 responded that the recommendation supported/justified existing screening protocols.
Some major health plans, including selected Blue Cross Blue Shield licensees that serve states such as Mississippi, Montana, Delaware, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and selected counties in Washington, are now basing policies for LS testing coverage on the EGAPP recommendation statement.