Awareness and Utilization of BRCA1/2 Testing Among U.S. Primary Care Physicians

摘要: Background Testing for mutations in the breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility genes BRCA1 BRCA2 ( BRCA ) has been commercially available since 1996. Purpose This study sought to determine, among U.S. primary care physicians, level of awareness utilization testing 2005 Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations. Methods In 2009, data were analyzed on 1500 physician respondents 2007 DocStyles national survey (515 family practitioners, 485 internists, 250 pediatricians, obstetricians/gynecologists). Results Overall, 87% physicians aware testing, 25% reported having ordered at least one patient past year. Ordering tests was most prevalent obstetricians/gynecologists practice more than 10 years, with affluent patients. Physicians asked select indications from seven different clinical scenarios representing increased (4) or low-risk (3) situations consistent USPSTF guidelines. Among ordering (pediatricians excluded), 45% chose scenario as an indication testing. Only 19% correctly selected all increased-risk none scenarios. Conclusions A substantial majority are many report test within minority, however, appear consistently recognize history patterns identified by appropriate evaluation. These results suggest need improve providers' knowledge about existing recommendations—particularly this era direct-to-consumer marketing.