Cancer Council GP familial cancer podcast series
HealthEd and Cancer Council Victoria have developed a two-part podcast series to support GPs in identifying and managing patients who may have a genetic variant that increases their risk of developing cancer.
Each episode is just over 30 minutes and explores the complexities of familial cancer risk, genetic assessment, and supporting patients and families.
Episode 1 – What family history can reveal: Familial cancer risk and the GP’s role
In this episode, Genetic Counsellor Dr Michael Bogwitz joins host Dr David Lim to unpack how, when, and whom to refer for familial cancer assessment, and how GPs can integrate family history more confidently into everyday practice.
You’ll hear about:
- The implications of family history in young patients presenting with vague abdominal symptoms and normal initial investigations.
- How a targeted family history can shift clinical thinking.
- How genetic counsellors assess inherited cancer syndrome risk and identify key high-risk factors.
- Why the most concerned family member may not necessarily be the best candidate for genetic testing.
- Practical tips for referring patients to familial cancer services and what to expect.
Episode 2 – Familial cancer risk: Supporting patients and families
In this episode, GP host Dr David Lim is joined by Clinical Geneticist A/Prof Alison Trainer, Genetic Counsellor Dr Michael Bogwitz, and Jenni, who shares her 30-year lived experience of Lynch syndrome.
Together, they discuss the challenges, opportunities and practical considerations involved in supporting patients with hereditary cancer risk in Australia.
You’ll hear about:
- Jenni’s 30-year lived experience with Lynch syndrome.
- The role of GPs as the “keeper of the story” across specialists, life stages and family.
- Family communication and how genetic services can support patients to share sensitive information appropriately.
- Risk management and new legislation protecting people with germline variants.
The podcasts are RACGP CPD-accredited and free. You must register as a HealthEd subscriber to access the accompanying activity.