Knowledge and Awareness of Cancer Genome Profiling Tests among Japanese Patients with Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genetics
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Increasing use of cancer genome profiling in patient care.
• Limited understanding among cancer patients regarding genomic tests and treatments.
• Need to assess patient awareness and psychological states related to cancer genomic medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify patient awareness of cancer genome profiling tests.
• To investigate patient understanding of test details, including secondary and hereditary findings.
• To evaluate patient anxiety and psychological states in cancer genome clinics.

Main Methods:

• Questionnaire survey distributed to cancer patients visiting genomic clinics.
• Data collection on awareness, anxiety, information sources, and psychological states.
• Statistical analysis of survey responses from 265 cancer patients.

Main Results:

• 82.3% of patients recognized "cancer genomic medicine," but only 34.0% understood its details.
• Few patients understood that tests identify secondary findings or hereditary tumor genes.
• Patients reported anxiety regarding standard treatment and prognosis limitations.

Conclusions:

• Significant gap exists in patient understanding of cancer genome profiling.
• Advance care planning requires improved patient education on genomic medicine.
• Integrating palliative care, cancer treatment, and genetic counseling early is crucial.