Trial Information

Screening for Familial Gastric Cancer in First Degree Relatives

Rationale:

Familial gastric cancer (FGC) concerns about 10% of all gastric cancers. It has an
impressive impact on both emotional and physical wellbeing of first degree relatives of
patients with (early) onset of gastric cancer. FGC can in 1-3% be attributed to one single
hereditary syndrome, the hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC). HDGC is associated with a
CDH1 mutation in about 40 % of the cases. In case there is no CDH1 mutation, referred to as
familiar diffuse gastric cancer (FDGC), it remains uncertain how to guide and/or screen
family members. The same applies for the rare familial intestinal type gastric cancer
(FIGC).

Aim:

In this study we want to determine the value of endoscopic screening in members of families
with FGC, both FDGC and FIGC. Also, we will analyze the associations of life style factors,
including dietary habits with the development of FDGC, to be able to built preventive
strategies. Finally, we want to assess the psychological impact of our screening protocol.

Objective:

Primary, to determine whether staining of the gastric mucosa increases the number of
detected (pre)malignant foci of diffuse type gastric cancer, in individuals from families
with FDGC as well as dysplastic, adenomatous and early intestinal cancers in individuals
from families with FIGC. Secondary: A To determine the optimal pathological work-up the
detection rate of (pre-)malignancy. B To determine clinical and life style factors that are
associated with the two types of FGC. C To determine the psychosocial impact of the
screening protocol in this population. D To develop a strategy for screening individuals
from FGC families and creative advise for preventive measures.

Study design:

A randomized controlled trial included in a prospective cohort analysis.

Study population:

All (first degree) relatives , from 18 years and older from patients who fulfill the
criteria for a FGC. These are; 1] all first degree relatives of an individual with diffuse
gastric cancer, without proven CDH1 mutation, or members from families with 2] 2 or more
individuals with gastric carcinoma, at least one < 50 yrs, or 3] 3 or more individuals with
gastric carcinoma, any age, any type, or 4] 1 individual with any type gastric carcinoma <
40 yrs.