Patient Perceptions of Germline Genetic Testing Benefits for Prostate Cancer

Germline genetic testing is underused for patients with prostate cancer, despite many being eligible for the procedure. A recent study explored perceptions and decision-making related to undergoing genetic testing among patients with prostate cancer to learn more about this discrepancy.

The qualitative interview study enrolled 33 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer who were treated at a safety-net hospital and had been given a referral for genetic testing in the previous 12 months.

Twenty-five English-speaking, 6 Spanish-speaking, and 2 Haitian Creole–speaking patients completed a telephone-based interview in their native language. Genetic testing data were compiled from interview responses and patients’ medical records. A thematic analysis was used to explore factors linked to decision-making in tandem with the use of genetic testing.

A total of 19 patients reported that they had completed genetic testing; 10 reported no testing, and 4 were unsure. Medical records showed that 24 patients had undergone genetic testing, including 6 patients who responded that they had no testing or were unsure.

Factors that influenced patient-reported genetic testing decisions were based on 4 main themes: gender-based perceptions of value to family, personal utility of genetic testing results, preferences for information, and relative priority of testing. Most patients did not view testing as a priority and declined or delayed testing due to treatment burden.

This study points to a need for improving communication regarding the purpose, value, and utility of genetic testing for patients diagnosed with cancer. Discussions on the importance of the individual benefit of genetic testing as well as implications of familial testing are justified.