Universal tumor screening for lynch syndrome: perspectives of patients regarding willingness and informed consent

Aim:Lynch Syndrome is associated with a significant risk of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) and other cancers. Universal tumor screening is a strategy to identify high-risk individuals by testing all CRC tumors for molecular features suggestive of Lynch Syndrome. Patient interest in screening and preferences for consent have been underexplored.Methods:A postal survey was administered to CRC patients in a Canadian province.Results:Most patients (81.4%) were willing to have tumors tested if universal tumor screening were available and were willing to discuss test results with family members and healthcare professionals. The majority (62.6%) preferred informed consent be obtained prior to screening.Conclusion:Patients were supportive of universal screening. They expected consent to be obtained, contrary to current practice across Canada and elsewhere.