4 June 2025

Dialogue between science and society at eye level

At a one-day workshop, researchers discuss the challenges of hereditary predisposition to cancer with affected families. The exchange of information, expectations and needs is a win-win situation for both sides. The event, initiated and run by DKF research group leader Maria Katapodi, was funded by the SNSF Agora program.

Biological relatives of patients with a hereditary form of cancer are at a significantly increased risk of developing a tumor themselves. Dealing with this information is a burden for both, the patients and their family members. Even if genetic tests and measures for early intervention are provided so that the risks of a serious illness can be minimised, there is often a lack of appropriate information, support and guidance available for these families.

These are main findings from the research projects of the CASCADE consortium, which is headed by Maria Katapodi, Professor for Nursing Science and DKF research group leader. The consortium is dedicated to elucidate research questions relating to personalised healthcare and prevention measures in hereditary breast and ovarian cancer as well as Lynch syndrome, which is associated with frequent and early onset of colorectal cancer and additionally causes various other tumours.

Enormous interest and commitment

The first workshop for families with a genetic predisposition to cancer took place on 17 May 2025 at the Zentrum Paul Klee in Berne and was fully booked with over 160 participants. Lectures suitable for laypeople, presentations on the latest research and the introduction of patient organisations provided relevant information for the audiance and appropriate room for exchange between experts, patients and families.

The event was set-up to take place in 4 alternating languages. Thanks to simultaneous translation and division into language groups for moderated discussions, there were no language barriers. Participants were able to address their unmet needs and expectations for healthcare and research in small groups. This input will serve Maria Katapodi and her research colleagues as a basis for further research projects.

"Quote on your conclusions from the workshop."

Prof. Dr. Maria Katapodi, Professor of Nursing Sciences and DKF Research Group Leader