Women’s Knowledge of Genomic Testing and Precision Medicine in Breast Cancer Treatment Decision-Making

Purpose: To understand awareness of genetic and genomic testing, as well as decision-making, in women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Participants & Setting: 29 African American/Black and Latina/Hispanic women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Methodologic Approach: A semistructured interview guide was used in focus groups conducted via videoconference. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings: Many of the women understood the concept of genetic testing to identify the BRCA1/BRCA2 variant, but none of them were aware of genomic testing and its implications for personalized medicine. Participants discussed provider and patient roles in treatment decision-making, identifying roles that the physician might play in treatment planning, from primary decision-maker to collaborator.

Implications for Nursing: As the number of precision cancer treatments expands, patients must be able to comprehend the information provided to make informed decisions about their treatment. Providers should do a better job of explaining potential treatments so that patients feel they are part of the decision-making process. Addressing gaps in treatment access and uptake requires providers to prioritize patient engagement and understanding.