Interest in genetic testing among first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer patients

Factors influencing and modifying the decision to pursue genetic testing for skin cancer risk

BACKGROUND

Across cancers, the decision to pursue genetic testing is influenced more by subjective than objective factors. However, skin cancer, which is more prevalent, visual, and multifactorial than many other malignancies, may offer different motivations for pursuing such testing.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to determine factors influencing the decision to receive genetic testing for skin cancer risk. A secondary objective was to assess the impact of priming with health questions on the decision to receive testing.

METHODS

We distributed anonymous online surveys through ResearchMatch.org to assess participant health, demographics, motivations, and interest in pursuing genetic testing for skin cancer risk. Two surveys with identical questions but different question ordering were used to assess the secondary objective.

RESULTS

We received 3783 responses (64% response rate), and 85.8% desired testing. Subjective factors, including curiosity, perceptions of skin cancer, and anxiety, were the most statistically significant determinants of the decision to pursue testing (P < .001), followed by history of sun exposure (odds ratio 1.85, P < .01) and history of skin cancer (odds ratio 0.5, P = .01). Age and family history of skin cancer did not influence this decision. Participants increasingly chose testing if first queried about health behaviors (P < .0001).

LIMITATIONS

The decision to pursue hypothetical testing may differ from in-clinic decision-making. Self-selected, online participants may differ from the general population. Surveys may be subject to response bias.

CONCLUSION

The decision to pursue genetic testing for skin cancer is primarily determined by subjective factors, such as anxiety and curiosity. Health factors, including skin cancer history, also influenced decision-making. Priming with consideration of objective health factors can increase the desire to pursue testing.

The Human Genome Project, and recent advances in personalized genomics

The language of “personalized medicine” and “personal genomics” has now entered the common lexicon. The idea of personalized medicine is the integration of genomic risk assessment alongside other clinical investigations. Consistent with this approach, testing is delivered by health care professionals who are not medical geneticists, and where results represent risks, as opposed to clinical diagnosis of disease, to be interpreted alongside the entirety of a patient’s health and medical data. In this review we consider the evidence concerning the application of such personalized genomics within the context of population screening, and potential implications that arise from this. We highlight two general approaches which illustrate potential uses of genomic information in screening. The first is a narrowly targeted approach in which genetic profiling is linked with standard population-based screening for diseases; the second is a broader targeting of variants associated with multiple single gene disorders, performed opportunistically on patients being investigated for unrelated conditions. In doing so we consider the organization and evaluation of tests and services, the challenge of interpretation with less targeted testing, professional confidence, barriers in practice, and education needs. We conclude by discussing several issues pertinent to health policy, namely: avoiding the conflation of genetics with biological determinism, resisting the “technological imperative”, due consideration of the organization of screening services, the need for professional education, as well as informed decision making and public understanding.

Genetic testing for the susceptibility to alcohol dependence: interest and concerns in an African American population

BACKGROUND

The search to identify genes for the susceptibility to alcohol dependence (AD) is generating interest for genetic risk assessment. The purpose of this study is to examine the level of interest and concerns for genetic testing for susceptibility to AD.

METHODS

Three hundred four African American adults were recruited through public advertisement. All participants were administered the Genetic Psycho-Social Implication (GPSI) questionnaire, which surveyed their interests in hypothetical genetic testing for AD, as well as their perception of ethical and legal concerns.

RESULTS

Over 85% of participants were interested in susceptibility genetic testing; however, persons with higher education (p=0.002) and income (p=0.008) were less willing to receive testing. Perception of AD as a deadly disease (48.60%) and wanting to know for their children (47.90%) were the strongest reasons for interest in testing. Among those not interested in testing, the belief that they were currently acting to lower their risk was the most prevalent. The most widely expressed concern in the entire sample was the accuracy of testing (35.50%). Other notable concerns, such as issues with the method of testing, side effects of venipuncture, falsely reassuring results, and lack of guidelines on "what to do next" following test results, were significantly associated with willingness to receive testing.

CONCLUSION

Although an overwhelming majority of participants expressed an interest in genetic testing for AD, there is an understandable high level of methodological and ethical concerns. Such information should form the basis of policies to guide future genetic testing of AD.

Predictors of genetic testing decisions: a systematic review and critique of the literature

Genetic testing is increasingly available in medical settings and direct-to-consumer. However, the large and growing literature on genetic testing decisions is rife with conflicting findings, inconsistent methodology, and uneven attention across test types and across predictors of genetic testing decisions. Existing reviews of the literature draw broad conclusions but sacrifice nuanced analysis that with a closer look reveals far more inconsistency than homogeny across studies. The goals of this paper are to provide a systematic review of the empirical work on predictors of genetic testing decisions, highlight areas of consistency and inconsistency, and suggest productive directions for future research. We included all studies that provided quantitative analysis of subjective (e.g., perceived risk, perceived benefits of testing) and/or objective (e.g., family history, sociodemographic variables) predictors of genetic testing interest, intentions, or uptake, which produced a sample of 115 studies. From this review, we conclude that self-reported and test-related (as opposed to disorder-related or objective) predictors are relatively consistent across studies but that theoretically-driven efforts to examine testing interest across test types are sorely needed.

A population-based cross-sectional study of colorectal cancer screening practices of first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer patients

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the proportions and predictors of first-degree relatives (FDRs) of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients (i) ever receiving any CRC testing and (ii) receiving CRC screening in accordance with CRC screening guidelines.

Methods

Colorectal cancer patients and their FDRs were recruited through the population-based Victorian Cancer Registry, Victoria, Australia. Seven hundred and seven FDRs completed telephone interviews. Of these, 405 FDRs were deemed asymptomatic and eligible for analysis.

Results

Sixty-nine percent of FDRs had ever received any CRC testing. First-degree relatives of older age, those with private health insurance, siblings and FDRs who had ever been asked about family history of CRC by a doctor were significantly more likely than their counterparts to have ever received CRC testing. Twenty-five percent of FDRs “at or slightly above average risk” were adherent to CRC screening guidelines. For this group, adherence to guideline-recommended screening was significantly more likely to occur for male FDRs and those with a higher level of education. For persons at “moderately increased risk” and “potentially high risk”, 47% and 49% respectively adhered to CRC screening guidelines. For this group, guideline-recommended screening was significantly more likely to occur for FDRs who were living in metropolitan areas, siblings, those married or partnered and those ever asked about family history of CRC.

Conclusions

A significant level of non-compliance with screening guidelines was evident among FDRs. Improved CRC screening in accordance with guidelines and effective systematic interventions to increase screening rates among population groups experiencing inequality are needed.

Trial Registration

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry: ACTRN12609000628246

A mobile colonoscopic unit for lynch syndrome: trends in surveillance uptake and patient experiences of screening in a developing country

The Genetic and Endoscopic Surveillance Clinic is an annual outreach service offering accessible colonoscopic surveillance to known families with Lynch syndrome living in remote areas of the Western and Northern Cape Province of South Africa. Unfortunately attendance at this outreach clinic has been declining over several years and fewer than a quarter of participants, attending for surveillance, have been adherent with all their recommended screening appointments. Concerns exist for non-adherent individuals as screening can prevent colorectal cancer by removing the precancerous lesion or enabling the treatment of a malignancy at an early stage. This study explored the experience of surveillance from both the non-adherers' and adherers' perspectives and identified unique factors affecting attendance at the outreach clinic. Rates of compliance are calculated for 191 mutation-positive cases of Lynch syndrome, using strict attendance criteria, and compared to figures obtained from self-reported attendance. Non-compliance was under-reported and compliance was exaggerated when basing data on self-reported adherence to recommendations. Specific characteristics of the outreach clinic affecting compliance are identified and recommendations are made to facilitate improvements to the service. These improvements can result in increased compliance with screening regimens and ultimately reduce cancer-related mortality.

Limited impact on self-concept in individuals with Lynch syndrome; results from a national cohort study

An increasing number of individuals seek genetic counseling and hereby learn about hereditary cancer in the family. Lynch syndrome is associated with an inherited high risk for colorectal and gynecological cancer, but knowledge about how family members at risk perceive their situation is limited. We used the national Danish HNPCC register to collect data on self-concept from 413 individuals with Lynch syndrome. The recently developed Lynch syndrome self-concept scale contains 20 items within two subscales related to stigma-vulnerability and bowel symptom-related anxiety. Significantly higher total scores, indicating a greater impact on self-concept, were reported by females and by individuals with experience from cancer in close relatives, whereas individuals with less formal education scored significantly higher on the stigma and vulnerability subscale. Scores in the upper quartile were more often reported by women (odds ratio 1.8) and by individuals with less education (OR 1.8). This study provides the first extended use of the Lynch syndrome self-concept scale and suggests that the majority of the Danish mutation carriers adapt well to the situation, though knowledge about the increased risk of cancer seem to have a greater impact in females, individuals with less education and those with experience of cancer in close relatives.

Colorectal cancer screening among primary care patients: does risk affect screening behavior?

Lifestyle factors including smoking, obesity, and diabetes can increase colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. Controversy exists regarding screening rates in individuals at increased CRC risk. To examine the effect of risk on CRC screening in primary care, cross-sectional data collected during January 2006-July 2007 from 720 participants in 24 New Jersey primary care practices were analyzed. Participants were stratified by risk: high (personal/family history of CRC, history of polyps, inflammatory bowel disease), increased (obesity, Type II diabetes, current/former smokers), and average. Outcomes were up-to-date with CRC screening, receiving a physician recommendation for screening, and recommendation adherence. Chi-square and generalized linear modeling were used to determine the effect of independent variables on risk group and risk group on outcomes. Thirty-seven percent of participants were high-risk, 46% increased-risk, and 17% average-risk. Age, race, insurance, education, and health status were related to risk. High-risk participants had increased odds of being up-to-date with screening (OR 3.14 95% CI 1.85-5.32) and adhering to physician recommendation (OR 7.18 95% CI 3.58-14.4) compared to average-risk. Increased-risk participants had 32% decreased odds of screening (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.42-1.08). Low screening rates among increased-risk individuals highlight the need for screening interventions targeting these patients.

Long-term compliance with endoscopic surveillance for familial adenomatous polyposis

AIM

The study assessed compliance of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) with endoscopic surveillance.

METHOD

In this nationwide, cross-sectional study, individuals from FAP families registered with the Netherlands Foundation for the Detection of Hereditary Tumours were invited to complete a questionnaire on endoscopic screening experiences.

RESULTS

 A total of 328 individuals were eligible for the study of whom 85 were at risk for FAP, 108 had an intact rectum after a colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis (IRA), and 135 had had a pouch following a proctocolectomy with ileoanal anastomosis (IPAA). Based on medical record data, 20% of the at-risk group and 26% of the IRA-group were found to be undercompliant with surveillance advice which was associated significantly with perceived self-efficacy, use of sedatives during surveillance, pain after surveillance and low perceived benefits of surveillance (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

One in five individuals at risk for FAP and one in four with a retained rectum are undercompliant with screening advice. We recommend that sedatives should be patient-tailored for FAP individuals undergoing surveillance and that adequate pain medication be provided after endoscopy.

Interest in genetic testing among affected men from hereditary prostate cancer families and their unaffected male relatives

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to evaluate potential sociodemographic, medical, psychosocial, and behavioral correlates of interest in genetic testing in men from hereditary prostate cancer families.

METHODS

Family members affected with prostate cancer (n = 559) and their unaffected male relatives (n = 370) completed a mailed survey. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association between potential correlates and interest in genetic testing for prostate cancer.

RESULTS

Forty-five percent of affected and 56% of unaffected men reported that they definitely would take a genetic test for prostate cancer. More affected men reported high levels of familiarity with genetic testing than unaffected men (46 vs. 25%). There were several variables that were significantly correlated with interest in either affected or unaffected men, but only age and familiarity with genetics were significant in both groups. After controlling for confounding variables, only familiarity remained a significant correlate in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The contrast between low levels of familiarity with genetics and high test interest among unaffected men highlights the need for increased educational efforts targeting hereditary prostate cancer families. Overall, results illuminated several novel characteristics of men from hereditary prostate cancer families that should be considered when developing future informed consent procedures or educational materials for prostate cancer genetic testing.

Screening participation in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer: a review

Literature regarding screening behaviour in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer was reviewed, in order to determine the prevalence of screening in this population and identify factors associated with screening participation. Four electronic databases were searched from 1994. Thirty papers met the inclusion criteria, including 3 community surveys, 13 studies on first-degree relatives of colorectal cancer patients, and 14 studies on genetic services for colorectal cancer risk assessment. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer, who have not received risk assessment, frequently have never had any form of screening for colorectal cancer. Uptake of endoscopic screening when offered to individuals identified as being at increased risk was generally high (often >60% participation). Having a medical recommendation to screen, a stronger family history and perceiving fewer barriers to screening were identified as predictors of screening behaviour. Existing data suggest that use of screening tests in individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer is variable, and our understanding of factors associated with screening behaviour is limited. A number of methodological problems in research to date were identified, and further research is needed in order to inform interventions to support sustained screening participation in this population.

Sharing genetic test results in Lynch syndrome: communication with close and distant relatives

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Clinical genetic testing can help direct cancer screening for members of Lynch syndrome families; however, there is limited information about family communication of genetic test results.

METHODS

A total of 174 probands who had genetic testing for Lynch syndrome were enrolled through 4 US cancer genetics clinics. Subjects were asked whether they had disclosed their genetic test results to first-, second-, and third-degree relatives. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify clinical and demographic factors associated with informing immediate and extended family of genetic test results.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-one of 174 probands (98%; 95% confidence interval, 95%-100%) reported that they had disclosed their genetic test result to a first-degree relative. Communication of test results to other relatives occurred significantly less often, with only 109 of 162 (67%; 95% confidence interval, 59%-74%) subjects with second- or third-degree relatives sharing their results. Individuals with a pathogenic mutation were significantly more likely to inform distant relatives than were subjects with a negative or indeterminate test result (odds ratio, 2.49; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-5.40). Probands' age, sex, and cancer status did not influence communication of genetic test results. Lack of closeness and concerns that relatives would worry or not understand the implications of test results were the primary reasons for not sharing genetic test results.

CONCLUSIONS

Most individuals who undergo genetic testing for Lynch syndrome share their test results with first-degree family members; however, these results reach more distant relatives significantly less often. Interventions to improve communication of genetic test results to members of the extended family are necessary to provide optimal cancer prevention care to at-risk families.

Can targeted intervention in CRC patients' relatives influence screening behaviour? A pilot study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the utility of a standardised risk information tool with respect to the uptake of screening activities administered to an accessible population of first-degree relatives of patients with sporadic colorectal cancer.

METHOD

Patients admitted for colorectal cancer resection were invited to enroll their family unit in the study. Families were randomised either to receive standard care or the intervention tool. The intervention group received a structured one page pamphlet outlining the risk associated with a family history of colorectal cancer, and the availability of and potential benefits from screening. Three months after the initial contact with the index patient, family members were invited to participate in a telephone interview. Primary end-points were both intention to screen and uptake of screening activities.

RESULTS

Forty-seven families had 156 eligible first degree relatives. Ninety-one consented to participate and were enrolled: 59 received standard care, 32 received the intervention. Age and sex were similar between groups. There was no significant difference in previous screening activities. The intervention tool had no influence on perceived self-risk of developing colorectal cancer or uptake of screening activities within the study period.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that the provision of targeted risk information to first-degree relatives is not likely to positively influence screening behaviour. Health care providers need to find alternative methods of disseminating information to this high-risk group.

Knowledge and attitudes about microsatellite instability testing among high-risk individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer

For individuals meeting Bethesda criteria for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome, the microsatellite instability (MSI) test is recommended as a screening evaluation before proceeding to genetic testing. The MSI test is new to the medical setting, but will be increasingly used to screen patients at high risk for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer. The main goals of this study were to examine knowledge about and exposure to the MSI test among individuals considering the test, to evaluate perceived benefits and barriers to undergoing the MSI test, and to identify the demographic, medical, and psychosocial correlates of the perceived benefits and barriers to undergoing the test. One hundred and twenty-five patients completed a survey after being offered the test, but prior to making the decision whether to pursue MSI testing. Results indicated low levels of knowledge about and previous exposure to the MSI test. Participants held positive attitudes about the potential benefits of the test and perceived few barriers to undergoing the test. Motivations were similar to those cited by individuals considering other genetic tests. Participants with nonmetastatic disease, with lower perceived risk for cancer recurrence, and who reported more self-efficacy endorsed more benefits from the test. Higher levels of cancer-specific psychological distress were associated with more perceived barriers to having the test. These findings suggest that individuals considering the MSI test know very little about it but hold positive attitudes about the test's utility. More distressed patients, patients who perceive themselves at higher risk for cancer recurrence, and patients with metastatic disease might be less motivated to have the MSI test.

Screening preferences of patients at familial risk of colorectal cancer

Our primary objective was to assess the screening preferences of patients at familial risk of colorectal cancer. Asymptomatic subjects aged 18-75 with a single first-degree relative diagnosed with colorectal cancer (n = 48) or polyps (n = 52) were asked to identify a preferred screening strategy, test features influencing their choice, and level of interest in decision-making after reviewing a decision aid describing the pros and cons of currently recommended screening tests. Although both groups preferred colonoscopy, 40% of subjects with a family history of colorectal cancer and 48% of those with a family history of polyps preferred alternative strategies. Accuracy was the most commonly identified test feature influencing test preference. Most subjects (66%) felt that selection of screening test should be a patient dominant or shared process. We conclude that patients at familial risk of colorectal cancer have distinct screening preferences that often vary from current recommendations.

Risk perception, worry and satisfaction related to genetic counseling for hereditary cancer

In this multi center study, genetic counseling for hereditary cancer was evaluated by assessing patients' worry, perceived risk of developing cancer and satisfaction with genetic counseling. An overall aim was to identify characteristics of vulnerable patients in order to customize genetic counseling. In addition, agreement between patients' and counselors' scores was measured. A total of 275 Norwegian patients were consecutively recruited, and 213 completed questionnaires before and after genetic counseling. Patients' perceived risk decreased after the genetic counseling session. There was incongruence between risk perception expressed as a percentage and in words. Patients were significantly less worried after counseling. Higher levels of worry were predicted by low instrumental satisfaction with counseling, high degree of perceived risk of developing cancer and younger age. In conclusion, counselors met the patients' psychological needs to a satisfactory degree during counseling. However, patients did not fully understand their risk of developing cancer.

Familial testicular cancer: interest in genetic testing among high-risk family members

PURPOSE

This study is part of an ongoing National Cancer Institute multidisciplinary, etiologically-focused, cross-sectional study of Familial Testicular Cancer (FTC). The current report targets interest in clinical genetic testing for susceptibility to FTC.

METHODS

Demographics, knowledge, health beliefs, and psychological and social factors were evaluated as covariates related to interest in genetic testing.

RESULTS

The majority (66%) of 229 participants (64 affected men, 66 unaffected men, and 99 women) from 47 multiple-case FTC families expressed interest in having a genetic test within 6 months, should such a test become available. Interest was similar among the three subgroups mentioned above. Worries about insurance discrimination based on genetic test results were associated with a significantly lower interest in testing. Alternatively, participants were more likely to be interested in genetic testing if they were younger and had higher levels of family support, a physician's recommendation supporting testing, cancer distress, and a need for information to inform the health care of their children.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals social and relationship factors that FTC survivors and their relatives considered important when contemplating the use of new genetic technologies. This is the first study describing hypothetical interest in genetic testing for familial testicular cancer.

Illness Representations, Self-Regulation, and Genetic Counseling: A Theoretical Review

In this article the Self Regulatory Theory (Leventhal, 1970; Leventhan H., Benyamini, Brownlee, Diefenbach, Leventhal E.A., Patrick-Miller, & Robitaille, 1997) is presented as a framework for conceptualizing genetic counseling. Findings published in the genetic counseling literature are re-interpreted from the perspective of the theory. Clients are seen as active information processors rather than passive receivers of information. Research related to clients' representations of genetic causality of disease and specific genetic conditions is reviewed. Associations of genetic illness representations to self representations, coping and health behaviors are examined, and suggestions are made for applications of the theory in research and clinical practice.

Genetic testing for hereditary cancers: the impact of gender on interest, uptake and ethical considerations

Genetic testing promises earlier intervention and more successful outcomes for individuals at risk for hereditary breast/ovarian and colorectal cancer. Research shows that gender influences health and access to health care services. In this paper, we review theoretical issues of gender, and research outcomes, in relation to genetic testing for hereditary cancers. We argue that integrating a gender analysis into assessment of new technologies and health programs is necessary to improve appropriateness, accessibility and effectiveness. Attention to gender is also critical to developing a deeper understanding of the ethical issues (both benefits and harms) raised by new genetic technologies.

Screening behavior of individuals at high risk for colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Periodic colonoscopy is an effective means of reducing the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer in individuals with a family history of the disease. The aims of this study were to determine the degree of compliance and to identify the factors related significantly to noncompliance with periodic screening in this high-risk population.

METHODS

A total of 178 individuals who had undergone genetic counseling for colorectal cancer between 1986 and 1998 and who had been advised to undergo periodic screening because of familial colorectal cancer (FCRC) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) were invited to complete a self-report questionnaire on psychosocial issues and screening experiences. Compliance data were derived from medical records and via self-report.

RESULTS

A total of 149 individuals (84%) participated in the study. Noncompliance with screening advice was rare (in 3% of cases), but significant delays (more than 1 year) in undergoing screening were observed in approximately 25% of the cases. The number of perceived barriers to screening (eg, discomfort, embarrassment) was the only variable related significantly to noncompliance/screening delay (odds ratio, 1.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-1.3). Use of sedatives during the procedure and receipt of a reminder letter seemed to facilitate better compliance.

CONCLUSIONS

Although few high-risk individuals abstain from screening entirely, approximately one in 4 deviates significantly from the recommended frequency of screening. Increased compliance may be achieved by reducing the discomfort and embarrassment associated with the procedure and by the use of reminder letters.

Genetics and alcoholism among at-risk relatives II: interest and concerns about hypothetical genetic testing for alcoholism risk

One purpose of this study was to examine hypothetical interest in genetic predisposition testing for alcoholism among at-risk relatives. Qualitative interviews and several quantitative tools were administered to 27 individuals who had at least one first-degree relative affected by alcoholism. Data analysis revealed that participants' interest in genetic testing for susceptibility to alcoholism was moderate. Lower educational level and a stronger belief in 'others' influencing health were related to participants' having a stronger interest in genetic testing. Participants' concerns about future use of genetic testing ranged from doubts about its usefulness in affecting behavior to apprehension regarding detrimental societal effects such as breaches in confidentiality and fear of being labeled an 'alcoholic.' Younger age and stronger interest in genetic testing were associated with deterministic or fatalistic beliefs, while drinking behaviors, gender, and other demographics were not. Participants questioned the utility of this type of testing. Their interest in testing and concerns about its hypothetical use may prove important for at-risk relatives who may face decisions about genetic testing in the future. Data from this study can provide direction for researchers and health care providers as genetic testing for this and other behavioral conditions emerges. Scientists and the public should address the social concerns expressed by participants, including the fear of labeling. Also, we can begin to anticipate characteristics common in those who may have fatalistic responses, and who may possibly make adverse behavior choices, to results from alcoholism susceptibility testing.

Methodology in longitudinal studies on psychological effects of predictive DNA testing: a review

In the last two decades predictive testing programs have become available for various hereditary diseases, often accompanied by follow-up studies on the psychological effects of test outcomes. The aim of this systematic literature review is to describe and evaluate the statistical methods that were used in these follow-up studies. A literature search revealed 40 longitudinal quantitative studies that met the selection criteria for the review. Fifteen studies (38%) applied adequate statistical methods. The majority, 25 studies, applied less suitable statistical techniques. Nine studies (23%) did not report on dropout rate, and 18 studies provided no characteristics of the dropouts. Thirteen out of 22 studies that should have provided data on missing values, actually reported on the missing values. It is concluded that many studies could have yielded more and better results if more appropriate methodology had been used.

Awareness of genetic testing for increased cancer risk in the year 2000 National Health Interview Survey

OBJECTIVES

This study explores factors associated with differential awareness of genetic tests for increased cancer risk in the US.

METHODS

27,405 respondents from the 2000 National Health Interview Survey, ages 25+, were asked if they had heard of these tests.

RESULTS

44.4% said 'yes', including 49.9% of whites, 32.9% of African-Americans, 32.3% of American Indians/Alaskan Natives, 28.0% of Asian/Pacific Islanders, and 20.6% of Hispanics. In multivariate analysis, test awareness was significantly associated with higher education, white race, age <60 years, female gender, private health insurance, personal or parent's history of certain cancers, physical activity, and vitamin/supplement use, among other factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The survey showed which population subgroups may lack access to cancer genetics information and may therefore benefit from targeted strategies to ensure risk-appropriate utilization of genetic counseling and testing.

Genetic testing for Alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency

PURPOSE

The Alpha Coded Testing Study investigated the risks, benefits, and psychological impact of home genetic testing for alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency.

METHODS

In the study, 996 adult individuals requested and returned a home-administered, confidential, fingerstick blood test.

RESULTS

Individuals highly rated the benefits of establishing a diagnosis (82%), helping family members (86%), and anticipating peace of mind (79%). 78% of 239 current smokers reported a high likelihood of smoking cessation if diagnosed with AATD. After testing, more than 60% indicated that they would share the results with family and physicians but < 30% would share results with insurance companies.

CONCLUSIONS

Confidential home testing for genetic disorders requires a comprehensive program of participant support.

An economic viewpoint on alternative strategies for identifying persons with hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer

PURPOSE

There is uncertainty regarding the optimal strategy for identifying mutation carriers among those with hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).

METHODS

We used decision analysis to compare the cost-effectiveness of 4 strategies among those with newly diagnosed colon cancer: (1) clinical and family history followed by microsatellite instability testing and germline testing (Bethesda guidelines); (2) universal microsatellite instability testing; (3) germline testing of those who meet clinical and family history criteria; and (4) universal germline testing.

RESULTS

The added cost per year of life saved (YLS) for each strategy was as follows: (1) 11,865 US dollars/YLS, (2) 35,617 US dollars/YLS, (3) 49,702 US dollars/YLS, and (4) 267,548 US dollars/YLS.

CONCLUSIONS

The Bethesda guidelines are the most cost-effectiveness approach to screen persons for HNPCC.

Implications of the age range in a population-based BRCA1 testing program with eligibility based on family history of breast and ovarian cancer

The current options available to BRCA1 mutation carriers can be classified as either cancer risk reduction or increased disease surveillance. Risk reduction might be preferable to young women. Increased surveillance might be more attractive to women when their cancer risk is highest. The aim of this report is to estimate the sensitivity, specificity and ability to detect carriers for a population-based BRCA1 testing program with eligibility based on family history of cancer, and examine the effect of age on the program's performance. A computer model was used to simulate the incidence of breast and ovarian cancer in a woman's family, based on her BRCA1 mutation carrier status. Age-specific estimates of the sensitivity and specificity for family history as an indicator of mutation status were applied to local population figures. Sensitivity of the program increased with the age of the proband and the size of her family. Sensitivity ranged from 0.33 for 20-year-olds with small families, to 0.98 for 60-year-olds with large families. Specificity was greater than 0.95, regardless of a woman's age or family size. If 0.12% of people carry a BRCA1 mutation, a province-wide testing program for people aged 20-69 with referrals based only on family history would have a sensitivity of 0.55. Only 2% of the genetic test results would be positive. The acceptability of a genetic testing program depends on its sensitivity and specificity, and on the options available to women who are found to carry a mutation. Compared with variation due to family size, the program sensitivity and specificity does not differ substantially amongst the various age groups.

Use of cancer susceptibility testing among primary care physicians

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are assuming greater roles in cancer risk assessment and susceptibility testing of patients. The objective of this study was to assess the beliefs and practices of PCPs relative to genetic susceptibility testing for cancer. A cross-sectional survey was mailed to 726 PCPs in community-based practices in southeastern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey. Data were collected on physician background, cognitive and psychosocial factors, practice environment, and patient factors. The main outcome measure was physician self-reported recommendation or referral of patients for cancer genetic susceptibility testing in a 12-month period prior to the survey. Of those surveyed, 475 (65%) PCPs responded. Complete survey data were available for 433 PCPs. Multivariable analyses show that factors positively associated with PCP recommendation/referral included: patient inquiry about their need for genetic testing for cancer (p < 0.001); PCP belief that patient age is the best predictor of cancer risk (p = 0.01); PCP self-reported frequency of collecting patient diet information (p = 0.01) and medical history information (p = 0.01); and PCP participation in an integrated health system (p = 0.01). PCP use of cancer genetic susceptibility testing may be influenced by patient inquiry, provider beliefs about factors that affect cancer risk, provider collection of risk-assessment data, and provider practice environment.

Health beliefs of first-degree relatives of individuals with colorectal cancer and participation in health maintenance visits: a population-based survey

The occurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in two or more close relatives by chance is relatively common, and a family history of CRC is recognized as a risk factor for CRC. The purpose of this study was to identify variables associated with participation of first-degree relatives (FDRs) of individuals diagnosed with CRC in health maintenance visits with healthcare providers. Data were collected from a survey mailed to patients (n = 1081) diagnosed with CRC under age 60 years who were identified by the Pennsylvania Cancer Registry. An enclosure was also included in the mailing for their FDRs. Of the 1,081 people contacted, 174 registry patients and 90 FDRs agreed to participate in this study. A logistic regression model was built, and constructs of the Health Belief Model and selected sociodemographic variables (age, gender, level of education) were entered with participation in health maintenance visits as the dependent variable. The analysis revealed 2 Health Belief Model variables (perceived barriers and perceived seriousness) and 1 sociodemographic variable (level of education) as predictive of an FDR's participation in health maintenance visits. The findings from this study suggest that FDRs of individuals with CRC do not perceive that they are at risk for CRC, despite their family history. These data also provide the foundation for future studies aimed at the development of interventions to increase awareness of the importance and benefits of screening for relatives of individuals with CRC.