Assessment of attitudes toward breast cancer genetics among five underserved special population groups

Objective: This study evaluated genetic testing interest and specific attitudes to it in five population groups. We sought to identify differences in genetic testing interest and attitudes.

Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized self-report data from five groups (African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latina, Native American, or Appalachian; 49 participants total). Survey items were informed by previous research and input from representatives of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Special Populations Networks (SPN). Descriptive and nonparametric statistical techniques were used.

Results: Testing interest was high generally. All groups endorsed more benefits than risks. Latinas endorsed more total benefits and fewer total risks to testing than African Americans (p<0.001) and Native Americans (p=0.001). Additionally, there were differences between groups with respect to endorsement of specific benefits and/or risks. These included testing to follow doctor recommendation (p=0.022), concern for effects on family (p=0.044), distrust of modern medicine (p=0.014), cost (p=0.041) and concerns about communication of results to others (p=0.032). Finally, we observed a significant inverse relationship between interest and genetic testing cost (p<0.050).

Conclusions: Breast cancer genetic testing interest was high, and the majority of women found more benefits to testing than risk although these vary by group. Cost may be an important barrier to obtaining genetic testing services. Research with a larger sample is recommended to explore different Latina perceptions compared to other groups.