Abstract
Detection of BRCA1/2 gene mutations opens the door for breast cancer prevention; however, many high-risk individuals are not screened until after their first cancer diagnosis. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its BRCA1/2 screening recommendations in 2019. This study explores provider awareness of this update and attitudes towards BRCA1/2 genetic testing. A survey was sent to Obstetrics/ Gynecology (Ob/Gyn), Internal Medicine (IM), and Family Medicine (FM) providers at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals (TJUH). 66% of responders felt familiar with BRCA1/2 screening guidelines, and 38% were aware of the 2019 USPSTF update. Ob/Gyn providers were more familiar with BRCA1/2 screening recommendations compared to IM and FM providers (p= 0.003). PCP concerns centered around the potential for negative psychological and financial impact, unnecessary testing, and test result uncertainty. Results highlight the need to increase provider awareness of BRCA1/2 screening measures and guidelines while addressing concerns regarding the impact of genetic testing on patients.
Recommended Citation
Munden, MS, Emily Foecke; Poluch, MS, Maria; Zeiger, MS, Jennifer S.; Rosenberg, MD, Maya; and Shroff, MD, Swati
(2024)
"Primary Care Provider Awareness and Attitudes Regarding Updated BRCA1/2 Screening Recommendations and Genetic Testing,"
The Medicine Forum: Vol. 25, Article 18.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29046/TMF.025.1.017
Available at:
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/tmf/vol25/iss1/18
