Department of Human & Molecular Genetics, Department of Social & Behavioral Health, and Department of Medicine, Massey Cancer Center, Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA.
J Oncol Pract. 2011 May;7(3):183-7. doi: 10.1200/JOP.2010.000190.
The availability of genetic tests for cancer susceptibility is increasing. Current tests, however, have limited clinical sensitivity. Even when clinically valid tests are available, the genetic counseling and informed consent process might not be feasible for dying patients with cancer. DNA banking preserves the opportunity for future research or clinical testing and may provide critical opportunities for surviving relatives. This study explored the current practices and potential for DNA banking for cancer susceptibility among oncologists specializing in palliative care.
Palliative care oncologists actively providing clinical care for dying patients with cancer were recruited for an online survey. Descriptive statistics for DNA banking practices, perceived qualification to recommend banking, and potential predictors were assessed.
Data were collected from 49 physicians (37% recruitment rate). Eighty percent reported assessing at least some patients for genetic cancer susceptibility in the past 12 months. No participants reported banking DNA for patients in the past 12 months. Only 5% reported feeling at least somewhat qualified to order DNA banking. A Web-based risk assessment tool and genetic counselor on staff were perceived as the most helpful potential resources.
Despite its potential, DNA banking is not being used by palliative care oncologists.
癌症易感性的基因检测越来越普及。然而,目前的检测方法临床灵敏度有限。即使有临床有效的检测方法,对于临终的癌症患者,遗传咨询和知情同意的过程可能不可行。DNA 银行保存了未来研究或临床检测的机会,并且可能为幸存的亲属提供重要的机会。本研究探讨了专门从事姑息治疗的肿瘤学家在癌症易感性 DNA 银行方面的当前实践和潜力。
为参与在线调查,招募了正在为临终癌症患者提供临床治疗的姑息治疗肿瘤学家。评估了 DNA 银行实践、认为有资格推荐银行的情况以及潜在预测因素的描述性统计数据。
从 49 名医生中收集了数据(37%的招募率)。80%的人报告在过去 12 个月中至少对一些患者进行了癌症易感性的基因检测。在过去的 12 个月中,没有参与者报告为患者进行过 DNA 银行存储。只有 5%的人表示至少对订购 DNA 银行有一定的资格。基于网络的风险评估工具和有遗传咨询师的工作人员被认为是最有帮助的潜在资源。
尽管有潜力,但姑息治疗肿瘤学家并未使用 DNA 银行。