Germline Genetic Testing After Cancer Diagnosis
Allison W Kurian1,2, Paul Abrahamse3, Allison Furgal3,4
1Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California.
JAMA
|June 5, 2023
Summary
Germline genetic testing is recommended for cancer patients, but only 6.8% received it between 2013-2019. Testing rates were lower for Asian, Black, and Hispanic patients compared to non-Hispanic White patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Germline genetic testing is crucial for cancer patients, guiding treatment and enabling familial screening.
- Practice guidelines recommend germline genetic testing for eligible cancer patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of germline genetic testing among cancer patients in California and Georgia from 2013 to 2019.
- To analyze trends and disparities in germline genetic testing uptake.
Main Methods:
- An observational study linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry data with genetic testing results.
- Included patients aged 20+ diagnosed with cancer between 2013-2019.
- Analyzed testing trends using logistic regression, examining gene variants and guideline recommendations.
Main Results:
- Only 6.8% of 1,369,602 cancer patients underwent germline genetic testing.
- Testing rates varied significantly by cancer type, with male breast (50%) and ovarian (38.6%) cancers having the highest rates.
- Non-Hispanic White patients had higher testing rates compared to Asian (22%), Black (25%), and Hispanic (23%) patients (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- Germline genetic testing uptake remains low among cancer patients in California and Georgia.
- Significant racial and ethnic disparities exist in germline genetic testing rates.
- Findings highlight the need for improved access and awareness of genetic testing for diverse cancer patient populations.
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