Document Detail


BRCA testing of breast cancer patients: medical specialists' referral patterns, knowledge and attitudes to genetic testing.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  19659662     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
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.
Authors:
E Van Riel; C C Wárlám-Rodenhuis; S Verhoef; E J T H Rutgers; M G E M Ausems
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article     Date:  2009-07-29
Journal Detail:
Title:  European journal of cancer care     Volume:  19     ISSN:  1365-2354     ISO Abbreviation:  Eur J Cancer Care (Engl)     Publication Date:  2010 May 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2010-06-07     Completed Date:  2010-10-29     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  9301979     Medline TA:  Eur J Cancer Care (Engl)     Country:  England    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  369-76     Citation Subset:  N    
Affiliation:
Department of Medical Genetics, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands. e.vanriel@umcutrecht.nl
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Adult
Aged
Attitude of Health Personnel
Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*,  genetics*
Female
Genes, BRCA1*
Genes, BRCA2
Genetic Counseling
Genetic Testing / methods*
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Netherlands
Physician's Practice Patterns*
Questionnaires
Referral and Consultation / statistics & numerical data*

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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