Summary

In this episode of Melanoma Matters, hosts Sapna Patel and James Larkin welcome Clare Turnbull, a clinical geneticist in London, to discuss her journey from studying mathematics to medicine, her work in cancer genetics, and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare. The conversation explores the role of genetic testing in melanoma, the challenges of public health in cancer treatment, and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care and patient outcomes.

Keywords

melanoma, genetics, COVID-19, public health, cancer treatment, screening, early detection, healthcare, epidemiology, clinical genetics

Takeaways

Clare Turnbull transitioned from mathematics to medicine in uni,

She has worked extensively in clinical genetics, focusing on cancer genetics.

COVID-19 significantly impacted healthcare delivery and cancer treatment prioritization, the effects of which will take a long time to bear out.

The importance of genetic testing in melanoma is highlighted, for young onset cases or those with a significant family history.

Public health initiatives are crucial for improving cancer outcomes.

The pandemic created a bulge in cancer mortality due to delayed diagnoses.

Screening for melanoma is essential, but the pick-up rates for genetic mutations are low - a cautionary tale.

Sound Bites

"A can-do attitude, what can I do to help?"

"There will be a bulge of mortality."

"The pick-up rate's pretty low."

Chapters

00:00 Opening theme music (My Favourite Dress...The Wedding Present)

00:48 Introduction of Guest Clare Turnbull

03:27 Clare's Journey in Clinical Genetics

05:36 Genomics England, 100K Genomes Project

06:58 Clare's extraordinary efforts during COVID

12:07 Melanoma and genetic risk(s) versus environmental risk

16:28 The Ripple Effects of Genetic Testing on Families