Long School of Medicine

When Cancer Runs in Families: When to Worry – When to Refer

FACULTY:
Dr. Gail Tomlinson, Division Chief of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, genetic counselor Kirsten Murray, and clinical psychologist Dr. Leanne Embry. 

OVERVIEW:
In this episode Dr. Tomlinson, Kirsten Murray, and Dr. Embry delve into the critical role pediatricians play when a child is diagnosed with cancer. Together, they discuss the complexities of childhood cancer, genetic predisposition, and the importance of early screening and supportive care. Dr. Tomlinson emphasizes the importance of understanding that most childhood cancers cannot be prevented and are not caused by anything the parents did. She also highlights the significance of genetic counseling and testing in identifying children at risk and guiding families through the process. Kirsten Murray shares her experiences in genetic counseling, explaining the criteria for genetic testing and the various signs that may warrant further investigation. She also discusses the emotional and psychological impact of genetic testing on families. Dr. Embry underscores the vital role of psychological support for families dealing with cancer, detailing how her team provides age-appropriate education and coping strategies to manage the stress and anxiety associated with cancer diagnoses and genetic testing.

OVERALL LEARNING OBJECTIVE:
Increase awareness and education for pediatric providers

DISCLOSURE TO LEARNERS:
Gail Tomlinson, MD, Leanne Embry, MD, and Kirsten Murray have no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

The Pediatric Grand Rounds Planning Committee (Deepak Kamat, MD, PhD, Steven Seidner, MD, Daniel Ranch, MD and Elizabeth Hanson, MD) has no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

The UT Health Science Center San Antonio and Deepak Kamat, MD course director and content reviewer for the activity, have reviewed all financial disclosure information for all speakers, facilitators, and planning committee members; and determined and resolved all conflicts of interests.

CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION STATEMENTS:
The UT Health Science Center San Antonio is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

The UT Health Science Center San Antonio designates this live activity up to a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits.

Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE:
Healthcare professionals will receive a certificate of attendance and are asked to consult with their licensing board for information on applicability and acceptance.

Credit may be obtained upon successful completion of the activity’s evaluation.

RELEASE DATE:
7/1/2024 

EXPIRATION DATE:
8/31/2026