The FA population carries a high risk for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oropharyngeal and anogenital regions connected with high morbidity and mortality. In addition to intrinsic genetic instability, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and a number of other factors contribute to the pathogenesis of SCC.

The Cancer Awareness Team, comprised of FA Germany leader Christine Krieg and FA clinician and researcher Eunike Velleuer, will engage and educate people with FA in using comprehensive cancer screening practices to raise cancer awareness and instill motivation for early screening; engage and educate medical providers and researchers to implement oral and general cancer screening for people with FA; and facilitate partnerships on a global scale through establishing collaborations, partnerships, and communication in the FA community regarding early cancer detection.