Does knowledge about the genetics of breast cancer differ between nongeneticist physicians who do or do not discuss or order BRCA testing?
OBJECTIVE
To assess nongeneticist physicians' knowledge and experience with BRCA1/2 testing.


METHODS
In 1998, 2250 internists, obstetrician-gynecologists (Ob-Gyns), and oncologists practicing in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, or New Jersey were surveyed.


RESULTS
Forty percent responded. Only 13% of internists, 21% of Ob-Gyns, and 40% of oncologists correctly answered all four knowledge questions about genetic aspects of breast cancer and testing for it. Knowledge was associated with discussing or ordering only among oncologists.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite deficiencies in their knowledge about the genetic aspects of breast cancer, many nongeneticist physicians have discussed testing and some have ordered testing.
Doksum
Teresa
T
Abt Associates Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, USA.
Bernhardt
Barbara A
BA
Holtzman
Neil A
NA
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D019398:Genes, BRCA1; D024522:Genes, BRCA2; D005820:Genetic Testing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D010821:Physicians, Family; D012044:Regression Analysis