Genetic testing for breast cancer: where are health care providers in the decision process?
OBJECTIVE
To identify BRCA1/2 knowledge, genetic testing intentions, and communication patterns in breast cancer survivors (survivors).


METHODS
A population-based survey was conducted of 276 female survivors diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 49 and living 5 to 10 years postdiagnosis.


RESULTS
Of the 79% who responded, 8% spoke with health care providers and 53% spoke with relatives about testing. Few (26%) correctly answered over half the BRCA knowledge questions. Intention to obtain testing varied (26-67%), depending on insurance coverage.


CONCLUSIONS
Health care providers and survivors seldom discuss BRCA testing. Providing information to survivors would increase their ability to make informed testing decisions.
Department of Epidemiology, University of Washington, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Seattle, Washington, USA.
C M
CM
Velicer
S
S
Taplin
D000328:Adult; D024682:BRCA2 Protein; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics*; D002285:Carcinoma, Intraductal, Noninfiltrating / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics; D005260:Female; D019398:Genes, BRCA1; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins / Q000235:genetics; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000235:genetics
D024682:BRCA2 Protein; D009363:Neoplasm Proteins; D014157:Transcription Factors