In March researchers from all over the world traveled to Australia to discuss current research on hereditary forms of colon cancer including hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Splitting the activities between Melbourne and Lorne, Australia the week-long meeting was a special joint gathering of two of the leading organizations of physicians and researchers working in the area of hereditary colon cancer, the Leeds Castle Polyposis Group and the International Collaborative Group for Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer.

Current research on the genetics of HNPCC and FAP, chemoprevention drugs, cancer screening, and the development of animal models in which to better study these conditions were discussed. Representatives from the Hereditary Bowel Clinic at the Royal Melbourne Hospital reported on recent data they had gathered. This clinic provides genetic counseling services for individuals with a family history of colon cancer. The researchers found that the most common reasons given by patients for coming to the clinic were personal risk assessment, to learn about their children's risks and genetic testing, and a desire to aid research. These researchers also found that 85% of people attending the clinic shared the information that they learned with family members.

The next meeting of the International Collaborative Group for HNPCC is planned for Israel in the year 2000, and the two groups will meet together again in 2001 in Venice, Italy.