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How men view genetic testing for prostate cancer risk: findings from focus groups.
D J Doukas1, M D Fetters, J C Coyne
1Department of Family Practice and Community Medicine, Center for Bioethics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA. ddoukas@mail.med.upenn.edu
Clinical Genetics
|November 15, 2000
Summary
Men
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Prostate cancer genetic testing is emerging.
- Understanding men's perspectives is crucial for informed consent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore values, beliefs, and attitudes influencing men's decisions about prostate cancer genetic testing.
- To identify factors affecting the intention to undergo or defer testing.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing 12 focus groups.
- Community sample of 90 diverse men.
- Thematic analysis of identified concerns.
Main Results:
- Key themes include beliefs about consequences, expectations, and benefits.
- Susceptibility concerns and perceived barriers are significant.
- Identified factors influencing decision-making regarding genetic testing.
Conclusions:
- Health professionals must address men's informational and ethical needs.
- Informed consent requires understanding potential impacts on prostate health planning.
- Awareness of information use beyond the patient-physician relationship is vital.