Women's Knowledge of Genomic Testing and Precision Medicine in Breast Cancer Treatment Decision-Making

To understand awareness of genetic and genomic testing, as well as decision-making, in women diagnosed with breast cancer.

29 African American/Black and Latina/Hispanic women diagnosed with breast cancer.

A semistructured interview guide was used in focus groups conducted via videoconference. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Many of the women understood the concept of genetic testing to identify the BRCA1/BRCA2 variant, but none of them were aware of genomic testing and its implications for personalized medicine. Participants discussed provider and patient roles in treatment decision-making, identifying roles that the physician might play in treatment planning, from primary decision-maker to collaborator.

As the number of precision cancer treatments expands, patients must be able to comprehend the information provided to make informed decisions about their treatment. Providers should do a better job of explaining potential treatments so that patients feel they are part of the decision-making process. Addressing gaps in treatment access and uptake requires providers to prioritize patient engagement and understanding.