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BRCA testing of breast cancer patients: medical specialists' referral patterns, knowledge and attitudes to genetic testing
Author(s) -
VAN RIEL E.,
WÁRLÁMRODENHUIS C.C.,
VERHOEF S.,
RUTGERS E.J.T.H.,
AUSEMS M.G.E.M.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
european journal of cancer care
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.849
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1365-2354
pISSN - 0961-5423
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2354.2008.01065.x
Subject(s) - medicine , referral , family medicine , breast cancer , genetic testing , genetic counseling , cancer , distress , clinical psychology , biology , genetics
VAN RIEL E., WÁRLÁM‐RODENHUIS C.C., VERHOEF S., RUTGERS E.J.TH. & AUSEMS M.G.E.M. (2010) European Journal of Cancer Care 19 , 369–376
BRCA testing of breast cancer patients: medical specialists' referral patterns, knowledge and attitudes to genetic testing This study explores knowledge about hereditary breast cancer, attitudes about BRCA testing and referral pattern to a family cancer clinic among medical specialists. A total of 92 questionnaires were completed by surgeons (38), medical oncologists (29), radiation oncologists (13) and radiologists (12). The response rate was 51%. A substantial (11–56%) proportion of medical specialists do not refer patients who meet current criteria for BRCA testing. Although questions on inheritance were less well answered, overall knowledge was good. They had a positive attitude, but were concerned about the distress DNA testing might cause to family members. The majority (75%) stated that the best time for referral is after adjuvant therapy or during follow‐up, but another important determinant was the patient's wish or need (12%). Further studies are needed to gain insight into the actual referral process, while ongoing training of medical specialists about genetic aspects of breast cancer is also necessary.