From Clinicians:

1. My surgery has run out of Family History Forms, where can I get a copy?
2. The family history of cancer is not that of breast, colorectal or ovarian, can I still use the family history questionnaire?  
3. What is a first-degree relative?  
4. The referral guidelines state that two first-degree relatives must be affected - what does this mean?  
5. What if a patient's family history of cancer changes?  
6. How long does a referral/family history assessment take?
7. Should I refer my patient to you if they are symptomatic?

My surgery has run out of Family History Forms, where can I get a copy?Link

Family History forms can be downloaded from this site.

The family history of cancer is not that of breast, colorectal or ovarian, can I still use the family history questionnaire?Link

Yes, the form can be used for individuals with family histories of cancer other than those detailed in the referral guidelines. Follow the guidelines, if there are several members of the close family with the same tumour at a young age, or a patient with multiple primaries, then do refer the patient.

What is a first-degree relative? Link

A first-degree relative is a parent, sibling (brother or sister) or a child - see diagram.

The referral guidelines state that close relatives must be affected - what does this mean? Link

Close relatives are:

• mother/father
• sister/brother
• son/daughter
• aunt/uncle
• grandmother/grandfather

What if a patient's family history of cancer changes? Link

It is important to reassess the family history if new cancers occur within the family, or if the history changes in any way, as management recommendations may need to be adjusted.

• If the patient has not been referred to WMFACS:
  If patient has completed a Family History Form at local primary care level and has been assessed as being at near-population risk, update the Family History Form with the new information and reassess. If they meet the referral guidelines send the Family History Form to the WMFACS team for assessment. If they do not meet the referral criteria, reassure in the usual manner.
• If the patient has previously been referred to WMFACS:
  The patient may wish to complete a new Family History Form, but if this is sent to WMFACS for reassessment please ensure that it is clear that the patient is already known to the department, preferably stating the patient's CGU (unit) number. Alternatively, the WMFACS team can be contacted by telephone or by letter with the new information. The family history will then be reassessed.

How long does a referral/family history assessment take?

Link
If a patient is referred to WMFACS the process may take several months as the information needed to access the family history is collected. We write to inform the patient of the process.

Should I refer my patient to you if they are symptomatic?Link

Refer the patient to the appropriate local service for assessment of symptoms, and also to WMFACS (see how WMFACS works in your area) if a family history is identified as usual.