Identifying and Supporting Patients with Inherited Cancer Risk

12.45pm – 4pm AWST, 17 June 2026 ‐ 3 hours 15 mins

Pre Congress Symposiums

Inherited Cancers Australia (ICA) delivers nationally recognised support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by hereditary cancer. Drawing on this expertise, the ICA team will facilitate an engaging half-day workshop designed to elevate the confidence and capability of cancer nurses in recognising, supporting, and advocating for patients with inherited cancer risk. As the demand for genetic testing grows across oncology and primary care, cancer nurses are ideally placed to identify at-risk patients and families, provide evidence-based informed education, and coordinate multidisciplinary care. This workshop will combine up-to-date, evidence-based information with real-world case discussions drawn from ICA’s clinical and community experience.

 

12:45pm Introduction
Robyn Smith, Programs and Advocacy Manager, Inherited Cancers Australia
12:50pm Presentation
Dr Gabrielle Reid, Genetic Counsellor at Inherited Cancers Australia and Lead Genomics Coordinator, Master of Genetic Counselling & Master of Genomics and Health Programs, University of Melbourne

Covering:
  • Statistics and background of cancer related genetic testing
  • Key features of inherited cancer risk and indicators that warrant referral for genetic assessment or mainstream genetic testing
  • Tumour tissue testing (somatic profiling) and implications for patient care
  • Pre and post test referral pathways, including eligibility criteria and follow up care
  • The role of genetic counsellors and genetic services
  • Real-life implications of inherited cancer risk for cancer patients and their families, including psychosocial and practical impacts of long-term medical management
  • Where to find evidence-based information about cancer genetics and relevant peer, community and patient support resources to support patient care
2:15pm – 2:30pm Break
2:30pm – 3:30pm Expert Panel Q&A
Discussing screening, risk management options, mental health, treatment and research for inherited cancer risk.

Panel members:
  • Clare Pigliardo – Clinical Psychologist, Royal Perth Hospital Breast Cancer Clinical Psychology Service and Richardson Street Practice
  • Professor Hooi Ee – Gastroenterologist, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and Clinical Professor, UWA Medical School
  • Dr Helen Ballal – Breast Surgeon sub-specialising in oncoplastic surgery, St John of God Subiaco Hospital and Royal Perth Hospital
  • Prof Paul Cohen – Director of Gynaecologic Oncology at St John of God Hospital, and Consultant at the WA Gynaecological Cancer Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital
3:30pm – 4:00pm Lived Experience Panel
Discussing the real-life implications of living with inherited cancer risk, with Q&A.

Panel members:
  • Nooshin Rasool
  • Yasmin Rasool
  • Leith Bailey

Session sponsor