Return of results from genomic sequencing: A policy discussion of secondary findings for cancer predisposition

Abstract

Advances in DNA sequencing technology now allow for the rapid genome-wide identification of inherited and acquired genetic variants including those that have been identified as pathogenic alleles for a number of diseases including cancer. Whole genome and exome sequencing are increasingly becoming a part of both clinical practice and research studies. In 2013 the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) recommended that results of pathogenic genetic variants in 56 genes, nearly half of which comprise cancer genes (including BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, MLH1, MLH2, MSH6, PMS2, and APC), be returned to patients who have their genome sequenced independent of the purpose for the test. This recommendation has been highly controversial for several reasons, particularly the recommendation that individuals be returned secondary findings of disease causing variants for adult onset conditions regardless of age and without consideration of patient preferences. In addition, the policy regarding returning results of secondary findings from genomic sequencing studies in research settings is currently unclear. In response to these emerging ethical issues, the Washington University Brown School of Social Work in St. Louis, MO, United States hosted a policy forum entitled “First do no harm: Genetic privacy in the age of genomic sequencing” on February 25th, 2014. The forum included a panel of experts to discuss their views on ethical issues related to return of results in both the clinical and research settings. In this report, we highlight key issues related to return of results from genome sequencing tests that emerged during the forum.