Affiliation:
1. Reshma Jagsi, Center for Bioethics and Social Science in Medicine, University of Michigan; Kent A. Griffith, Center for Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan; Steven J. Katz, University of Michigan; Sarah T. Hawley, Ann Arbor VA Health Care System, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; Allison W. Kurian, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford; Ann S. Hamilton, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; Monica Morrow, Memorial Sloan...
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate preferences for and experiences with genetic testing in a diverse cohort of patients with breast cancer identified through population-based registries, with attention to differences by race/ethnicity. Methods We surveyed women diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer from 2005 to 2007, as reported to the SEER registries of metropolitan Los Angeles and Detroit, about experiences with hereditary risk evaluation. Multivariable models evaluated correlates of a strong desire for genetic testing, unmet need for discussion with a health care professional, and receipt of testing. Results Among 1,536 patients who completed the survey, 35% expressed strong desire for genetic testing, 28% reported discussing testing with a health care professional, and 19% reported test receipt. Strong desire for testing was more common in younger women, Latinas, and those with family history. Minority patients were significantly more likely to have unmet need for discussion (failure to discuss genetic testing with a health professional when they had a strong desire for testing): odds ratios of 1.68, 2.44, and 7.39 for blacks, English-speaking Latinas, and Spanish-speaking Latinas compared with whites, respectively. Worry in the long-term survivorship period was higher among those with unmet need for discussion (48.7% v 24.9%; P <.001). Patients who received genetic testing were younger, less likely to be black, and more likely to have a family cancer history. Conclusion Many patients, especially minorities, express a strong desire for genetic testing and may benefit from discussion to clarify risks. Clinicians should discuss genetic risk even with patients they perceive to be at low risk, as this may reduce worry.
Publisher
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)