Perception of Family Genetic Testing for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer: A Survey of Patients and General Public.
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BACKGROUND: Family genetic testing facilitates early cancer diagnosis and prevention for relatives of individuals carrying Breast Cancer Susceptibility Genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1/2) pathogenic variants. This study evaluates perceptions of family genetic testing among Korean cancer patients and the general public, providing foundational data to guide strategies for implementation. METHODS: A total of 186 participants (86 patients with cancer and 100 public controls) were educated on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer and family genetic testing via a presentation video accessed through QR codes or smartphone links. Afterward, participants completed a 10-question knowledge test, and perceptions were assessed using a questionnaire featuring a hypothetical BRCA1/2 patient scenario to explore general characteristics and attitudes toward family genetic testing. RESULTS: Post-education, knowledge scores were significantly higher in the patient group than in the controls (median: 10 vs. 9, P = 0.040). Overall, 54.6% of participants shared their genetic test results, with patients sharing more frequently than controls (59.6% vs. 50.0%, P < 0.001). First-degree relatives were the most common recipients (patients: 81.0%, controls: 76.9%, P = 0.163). Results were shared to inform relatives of cancer risks and encourage prevention, while weak familial relationships were cited as barriers. Face-to-face communication was the preferred sharing method. Most participants (75.8%) believed genetic results should be shared with children once they turn 19. CONCLUSION: Promoting family genetic testing requires effective communication and dissemination of accurate information. Developing systematic genetic counseling programs is essential to achieving these objectives.