Knowledge, Impact and Ethical Issues of Cancer Genomics among Oncologists

Abstract

Abstract Rapid advances in cancer genomic technologies not only affected testing and treatment but also have resulted in innumerable possibilities for research. This study was conducted to assess current knowledge of clinical cancer genomics, research, related ethical issues, and future impact among oncologists to help direct tailored competency-based curriculum development. A web-based survey was developed and organized into four sections: demographic information, cancer genomics knowledge, oncologists' perception of cancer genomics' future impact; and related ethical issues. Ninety percent of respondents were Egyptians, 83% knew what cancer genomics is and 66% knew its basic areas. Eighty-three % thought that cancer genomics will have an impact in the next 5 years. Nearly half (46%) of the respondents thought that there is a clear boundary between cancer genomics research and clinical care. Most oncologists refused using genetic data sharing (80%) or data transfer (79%) to third parties without consent. The core competencies of the proposed curriculum were then developed. There were 20 core competencies organized in two main domains: knowledge and skills (12 on knowledge and 8 on skills) for cancer genomics and associated ethics. Our findings could benchmark standards for postgraduate curriculum development of cancer genomics and its related ethics issues.