Abstract P1-10-04: Latina Interest in Genetic Breast Cancer Testing: The Significance of Having a Biological Daughter

Background. Breast cancer is a devastating disease. Identification of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations associated with it offer to provide an efficacious “early warning system”. However investigators question whether women are interested in knowing if they possess gene mutations, particularly minorities traditionally averse to dealing with a complex medical system. Effective means for addressing these gaps are unidentified. Here we determine the extent of interest in genetic testing among Latinas compared to Non-Hispanic White (NHW) women. Also, we identify factors associated with interest in genetic testing. Finally, we show why differences in interest in genetic testing for breast cancer exist among groups of women. Material and Methods. We surveyed 290 women (153 Hispanic, 137 NHW) aged 26+ from the San Antonio Cancer Therapy and Research Center9s catchment area. Surveys included demographic information, measures assessing breast cancer knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and medical and family history data. Participants were assigned “high” or “moderate/low” cancer risk status according to American College of Medical Genetics Foundation guidelines. Chi-Square and Student9s T-tests assessed bivariate relationships. Multivariate logistic regression identified factors associated with interest in genetic testing. Results. 20% of women were not “Very interested” in genetic testing for the BRCA1/BRCA2 mutation. Bivariate results showed ethnicity, use of non-traditional health care sources and negative perceptions of genetic testing were associated with low interest in genetic testing among all women. A multivariate model of genetic testing interest revealed several measures significantly associated with it, including Hispanic ethnicity (OR 5.74, p Whereas NHW women are influenced in their decision chiefly by use of nontraditional sources of medical care, Latinas are strongly influenced by perceptions of personal risk and having biological daughters. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-10-04.