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As the state’s largest cancer care practice, Minnesota Oncology is a voice for community education regarding the latest developments in cancer care.

On July 29, 2011, Minnesota Public Radio journalist, Kerri Miller, aired an interview with Dr Thomas Amatruda highlighting projects and advancements in cancer genetics. Dr Amatruda is lead physician for the genetics program here at Minnesota Oncology.

Joining them for the interview was Barbara Kunz, Chair of the MN Genetic Counselors Association, who has collaborated professionally with Dr Amatruda for many years.

Dr Amatruda shared about ExpO, the Cancer Genome Atlas project at Abbott Northwestern Hospital.  This innovative endeavor involves banking tumor tissue from surgical patients for sophisticated molecular genetic testing and analysis.  The results are then used to link genetic results to clinical outcomes.

The conversation also focused on the use of genetic testing as a guide for prevention, surveillance and treatment of inherited cancers; as well as recent advancements in targeted therapies and exciting new treatments for melanoma recently announced at ASCO.

Other insight and information revolved around the risks, benefits and value of genetic testing and counseling for inherited cancers.  These tests have been in use for the past fifteen years, but have become more highly-developed and accurate with advancements in gene mapping; truly altering the way some cancers are treated.

Congratulations and thanks to Dr Amatruda for sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise…and for being a voice in this conversation for the citizens of Minnesota.