University of Michigan Develops GIFT Online Platform to Bridge Critical Gaps in Family Genetic Risk Communication

University of Michigan researchers launch the GIFT platform, a web-based tool helping cancer patients and families navigate and share hereditary genetic risks.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 25, 2026, 6:30 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Michigan Medicine - University of Michigan

Addressing the Challenges of Cascade Genetic Testing

When a patient is diagnosed with a pathogenic genetic variant, the clinical implications often extend far beyond the individual, yet the medical system rarely provides a structured mechanism for following up with at-risk family members. While germline genetic testing can identify over 40 genes associated with increased cancer risk, the responsibility for notifying relatives traditionally falls on the patient. To address this "unmet need," researchers at the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center developed the GIFT platform, an online tool designed to provide decision support and education for families navigating hereditary cancer risks.

The Efficacy of Digital Decision Support Tools

The GIFT platform functions as a comprehensive ecosystem where cancer survivors can learn how to communicate sensitive genetic information and directly invite first- and second-degree relatives to access resources. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology evaluated 414 survivors, comparing an online-only approach against one supplemented by a human navigator. The results suggested that a digital-only interface was sufficient for most users, as participants found the site intuitive and capable of providing the necessary services without external professional intervention.

Barriers to Communication in Clinical Settings

Despite the clear benefits of sharing genetic data, many patients receive insufficient guidance from their healthcare providers on how to initiate these difficult family conversations. A related study of over 1,700 women with breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer found that while the majority were encouraged by counselors to speak with relatives, only 57 percent received specific advice on how to do so. This disconnect highlights a significant gap in the standard of care, as the focus of oncology remains primarily on the patient in the room rather than the biological network of at-risk individuals surrounding them.