Thousands of people at higher risk of developing cancer due to inherited faulty genes will be regularly checked and tracked by the NHS thanks to a first-of-its-kind national genetics programme.
The world-first genetic register, developed by the NHS, will collect patient information on over 100 genes linked to an increased risk of cancer, with plans for it to help fast-track thousands more people to screening and testing, while speeding up access to personalised therapy and trials.
Ahead of the government’s landmark new National Cancer Plan next month, England’s top cancer doctor said the genetic register comes as part of “a new era of early cancer detection” to help thousands more people to access tailored information, testing and risk-reducing interventions.
Genomic testing is offered by the NHS for people with cancer and those with a family history of cancer, with tens of thousands accessing it each year.
To read the full NHSE article, please visit here: https://www.england.nhs.uk/2026/01/thousands-at-risk-inherited-cancers-receive-regular-nhs-checks-genetics-programme/