Fear of Results Hinders Women's Use of Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer Risk
A recent survey reveals that a significant majority of women find screenings like genetic testing reassuring when facing potential health concerns. Myriad Genetics, Inc., a leader in molecular diagnostic testing, offers the MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test, which calculates a woman's breast cancer risk based on genetic insights, family history, and other clinical factors. However, despite the potential empowerment and reassurance, many women remain afraid of cancer screenings.
Dr. Ifeyinwa Stitt, a national physician spokesperson for Myriad Genetics, has been advocating for the MyRisk test since 2011. The test considers a woman's genetic makeup, family history, and other clinical factors to estimate her five-year and lifetime breast cancer risk. Knowing one's family cancer history is crucial for calculating this risk and making informed decisions about screenings.
The survey found that more than half of women at high risk for hereditary cancer would feel empowered by genetic testing. However, it also highlighted a significant barrier to screenings: 80% of women reported being afraid of getting screened due to fear of the results. This fear is despite more than one in four women in an OB/GYN setting meeting the criteria for hereditary cancer testing. Only 14% of respondents had ever undergone genetic testing, indicating a gap between eligibility and actual testing.
The MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test offers women a tool to understand their breast cancer risk better and make informed decisions about screenings. Despite the reassurance and empowerment that genetic testing can provide, fear of results remains a significant barrier to cancer screenings. Addressing this fear and increasing awareness about genetic testing could help more women make informed decisions about their health.
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