Cancer genetics--survey of primary care physicians' attitudes and practices.

BACKGROUND

Genetic testing for susceptibility to cancer often involves complex medical, ethical, legal, and psychological issues that present a challenge for physicians in clinical practice.

METHODS

This study is based on survey data from 101 primary care physicians throughout Texas, measuring their interest in and attitudes about cancer genetics.

RESULTS

The majority of physicians surveyed reported that they would consider genetic screening for at least one of seven genetic disorders that predispose to cancer, and almost 20% had made one or more referrals for genetic evaluation and DNA testing. Overall, they wanted to see a variety of continuing education programs and educational materials on DNA testing for cancer susceptibility developed. Although most of the physicians accurately perceived a number of major obstacles to referring patients for genetic testing, barriers such as difficulty in interpreting test results, potential for false-positive and false-negative results, and concern about patients'reactions to test results were reported less frequently.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support other evidence for a need to provide continuing education to physicians about genetic testing for susceptibility to cancer.