Factors Associated With Inaccurate Recall of Inherited Cancer Genetic Test Results Among Individuals With Germline...

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Cancer Research
• Medical Psychology

Background:

• Germline pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants (GPV) in cancer susceptibility genes are vital for guiding medical care.
• Inaccurate patient recall of genetic test results can impede the adoption of recommended medical interventions.
• Ensuring accurate recall of genetic testing results is critical for effective cancer management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify demographic and psychosocial factors associated with inaccurate recall of germline pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants (GPV) test results.
• To assess the impact of inaccurate recall on cancer risk management.
• To understand patient recall accuracy in the context of genetic testing for cancer susceptibility.

Main Methods:

• Categorization of individuals based on accuracy of recall of their cancer susceptibility GPV test results.
• Use of multiple logistic regression to analyze demographic and psychosocial factors linked to recall accuracy.
• Inclusion of 807 participants with confirmed cancer susceptibility GPVs affecting cancer risk management.

Main Results:

• 11% of participants (91 out of 807) inaccurately recalled their test results, with 22 not remembering testing and 69 having recall issues impacting management.
• Inaccurate recall was associated with a history of cancer (OR=2.24) and lower educational attainment (OR=2.42).
• Factors associated with inaccurate recall included positive feelings about results (OR=1.73), lower emotional distress (OR=0.65), lower hereditary cancer knowledge (OR=0.67), and reduced satisfaction with family support (OR=0.62). GPVs in high/moderate-risk breast cancer genes showed significantly lower inaccurate recall (OR=0.18).

Conclusions:

• A significant proportion of patients (11%) demonstrate inaccurate recall of genetic test results, highlighting a gap in care.
• The findings underscore the necessity for improved documentation and accessibility of test results for both patients and healthcare providers.
• Enhanced patient understanding and accessible result information are essential for ensuring appropriate medical care and management of hereditary cancer risks.