Streamlined Genetic Education and Cascade Testing in Hereditary Cancer Families: Key Findings
Introduction
When a pathogenic BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation is found in a family, it is important for family members to undergo cascade genetic testing to guide screening and treatment decisions. However, men are less likely than women to pursue cascade testing. To address this, we developed a Web-based genetic education tool tailored to overcome barriers to cascade testing and streamline the process.
Methods
We conducted a randomized trial with 63 untested men from hereditary cancer families, comparing Web-based genetic education (WGE) to enhanced usual care (EUC). WGE participants accessed a genetic education website and could choose genetic testing or pretest genetic counseling. EUC participants received an informational brochure and a letter recommending genetic counseling.
Results
Men in the WGE group were more likely to complete genetic counseling and/or testing compared to the EUC group (43% vs. 12.1%). WGE participants were also more likely to complete genetic testing than men in the EUC group (30% vs. 9.1%).
Conclusion
This trial suggests that proactively delivered genetic education can reduce barriers to cascade testing in at-risk men, leading to increased uptake. However, these results should be interpreted cautiously due to the select sample and high non-response rate.
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