Exploring perceptions of genetic testing: an examination of perceived accuracy over time

Despite the potential impact of perceptions of genetic testing, little research has examined these perceptions. The current study examined factors associated with perceived accuracy of genetic testing to detect BRCA1/2 mutations and change in perceived accuracy.

Participants were recruited through advertisements, community groups, and local oncologists and gynecologists. Ashkenazi Jewish patients (N=120) at increased risk for BRCA1/2 genetic mutations were surveyed in a repeated-measures design with assessments at three time points: pre-counseling, post-counseling, and post-testing.

Better knowledge of cancer genetics related to higher perceived accuracy before counseling. Lower perceived risk of developing ovarian cancer was associated with increased perceived accuracy, while greater distress regarding gene status was associated with decreased perceived accuracy. Genetic test results were unrelated to change in perceived accuracy.

The results offer an initial look at how patients form perceptions of genetic testing. Both cognitive factors and affective factors relate to how patients perceived the accuracy of testing and how their perception changes over time.

Understanding cognitive and affective factors which may impact patients' perceptions of genetic testing is important. Specifically, attention should be paid to educating patients regarding cancer genetics and encouraging adaptive coping strategies to deal with distress.