Division of Cancer Predisposition

The Division of Cancer Predisposition was formed in 2014 with the overarching mission to combine state-of-the-art clinical care with cutting edge research to enhance the outcomes for children and families at increased genetic risk for cancer. By further elucidating why these tumors form, we aim to enhance the clinical care of affected children and their families.

Our division identifies children with a variety of cancer predisposing conditions and provides guidance regarding initial tumor treatment as well as how to best monitor for the subsequent development of additional tumors. This includes confidential genetic counseling and testing for St. Jude patients, and when appropriate, their parents and siblings. We also implement state-of-the-art protocols for cancer surveillance and prevention. Finally, we serve as a resource on cancer genetics and genetic testing to colleagues within St. Jude as well as to outside providers and families.

Our research projects range in scope from identifying novel genetic causes for cancer, to understanding the factors that influence how parents and adolescents make decisions about, communicate and react to cancer genetic testing. We are a collaborative investigative team and look forward to participating in related research projects being undertaken by colleagues in the Solid Tumor, Neuro-Oncology, Survivorship, Leukemia / Lymphoma, Hematology, and Computational Biology programs. We also actively collaborate with external investigators on cancer genetics-related investigations.