Interest in genomic testing and risk communication preferences in women from BRCA1/2 negative families

Abstract

Scientific advances have allowed the development of multiplex gene panels in which many genes are assessed simultaneously in women who have tested negative for BRCA1/2. We examined correlates of interest in testing for genes that confer modest/moderate breast cancer risk and risk communication preferences. Women who were first-degree relatives of breast cancer patients who tested negative for BRCA1/2 mutations (n = 124) completed a survey assessing testing interest and risk communication preferences. Interest in genomic testing was high (71%) and even higher if results could guide risk-reducing behavior changes (81%). Participants preferred to receive risk communications from a variety of sources including: primary-care physicians (83%) printed materials (69%) and the Internet (60%). In multivariable analyses, factors that were independently associated with interest in genomic testing were: younger age (p = 0.017), moderate to high levels of cancer worry (p = 0.003), and fruit and vegetable intake (p = 0.048). Our findings provide guidance for health psychologists and researchers, who can help develop and test genomic risk communications, promote informed decision-making and customize behavioral interventions.