A Socio-ecological Analysis of Factors Influencing the Perceived Value of Multicancer Early Detection Testing in the...

Multicancer early detection (MCED) tests represent a novel advancement in cancer diagnostics, detecting multiple cancer types through a single blood draw. Understanding factors shaping individual receptivity is crucial for equitable implementation.

Using a socio-ecological framework, we analyzed nationally representative data from the 2024 Health Information National Trends Survey to examine predictors of perceived MCED value across proximal, intermediate, and distal levels. Survey-weighted logistic regressions estimated adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

A total of 7,208 adults were included; 73.6% rated MCED testing as moderately to highly valuable. Adults aged 40 to 44 years (aOR = 2.23; 95% CI, 1.33-3.75; P = 0.003) and ≥45 years (aOR = 2.56; 95% CI, 1.80-3.65) had more than twice the odds of valuing MCED testing versus those aged 18 to 34 years. Hispanic (aOR = 2; 95% CI, 1.34-3) and non-Hispanic Black respondents (aOR = 1.86; 95% CI, 1.22-2.84) reported significantly greater receptivity than non-Hispanic Whites. Greater trust in the healthcare system (aOR = 1.55; 95% CI, 1.16-2.06), reported healthcare discrimination (aOR = 1.63; 95% CI, 1.04-2.54), and longer wait times for test results (aOR = 1.44; 95% CI, 1.05-1.98) were associated with higher perceived MCED value.

MCED testing receptivity seems to be influenced by sociodemographic, psychosocial, and structural factors. Greater receptivity among Black/Hispanic individuals and those reporting discrimination may reflect "protective vigilance" against systemic barriers.

Our findings highlight opportunities for targeted interventions promoting equitable MCED uptake through trust-building and follow-up across populations.