Elizabeth Swisher, MD

Rivkin Center/CARE Fund

University of Washington
Optimizing Genetic Testing Uptake And Outcomes For Hereditary Ovarian Cancer Risk

As genetic testing for cancer risk becomes increasingly accessible, the goal of eradicating hereditary ovarian cancer through comprehensive genetic testing and effective prevention is tantalizingly close. However, several large studies have revealed that a large minority of people get partway through the genetic testing process, then change their mind and do not complete testing. Dr. Swisher will discover reasons for non-completion of genetic testing by interviewing people from a previous trial and by analyzing data on potential factors. Our improved understanding of genetic testing barriers will then be used to design supportive strategies to broaden access to cancer genetic testing and ultimately eliminate hereditary ovarian cancer.

Bio
Dr. Swisher is a clinician scientist, Professor of Gynecologic Oncology, and Adjunct Professor in Medical Genetics at the University of Washington. She is Deputy Director of the Fred Hutchinson/University of Washington/Seattle Children’s Cancer Consortium and co-leads the Breast and Ovary Cancer Program. The primary focus of Dr. Swisher’s lab is the molecular genetics of ovarian cancer with a view towards improving both prevention and therapeutics. She has been closely involved in the therapeutic development of PARP inhibitors and has a clinical focus on genetics and clinical trials. She has also focused on improving our understanding of genetic risk of ovarian cancers with a goal to increase access to genetic testing and reducing the number of women who die of hereditary ovarian cancer.